Presenting the findings listed in the report, Kurti has mentioned economic growth of 5.4 percent in the first quarter of this year, increased budget revenues by 8.3 percent, and improved business environment and reduced the informal economy.

He has stressed that employment and participation in the labour market have also increased, and the scheme, according to him, has produced very good results. Kurti has also mentioned expanding coverage with additions for children, increasing the minimum wage to 500 euros, and increasing the number of job inspectors to 120.

In education, it has singled out the increase in enrollment of five-year-old children in primary education to 87 percent, increased dual education to 16 profiles, and increased the scientific research budget by 85 percent.

Kurti has also cited progress in the field of energy, environmental protection, trade and co-operation with the European Union, including entry into force of the Free Trade Agreement with EFTA.

As for the European integration process, Kurti has said that Kosovo continues to be the only country in the Western Balkans without candidate status, although, according to him, has testified to democracy, rule of law and human rights.

He has acknowledged that the Parliament’s institutional blockade has impacted the slowdown in reforms and delays in ratifying growth Plan agreements, as well as on the adoption of certain laws.

The Government head has suggested that institutions will continue with the adoption of laws related to the justice system, work, labour security, public procurement and other areas, naming them important for the approach of Kosovo to European standards.

In the end, Kurti has reiterated the requirement for the European Union to hand over Kosovo as soon as before the candidate country’s status questionnaire and make the decision to open membership negotiations.

He has stressed that reforms will continue, as according to him, the path towards EU membership passes through them.

Source Layer: RTKLive