EIB Global, the financial arm of the European Investment Bank (EIB) for activities beyond the EU, set a new record by investing €1.2bn in the Western Balkans in 2023, the EIB said on February 9. This marked an increase of €365mn compared to the previous year. The funds were channelled into sustainable and energy transition projects, aligning with the region’s goals for EU accession, economic development, climate resilience, and enhanced connectivity. Kyriacos Kakouris, EIB vice-president responsible for the region, highlighted the collaborative efforts with the European Commission, stating, “I…