    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)]
    [March 30, 2000]
    [Pages 577-578]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Regional Funding Conference for Southeast Europe
    March 30, 2000

        I want to congratulate the countries of southeast Europe, the
    Stability Pact, the European Commission, and the World Bank on the
    success of the Regional Funding Conference for Southeast Europe in
    Brussels.
        Last year we launched the Stability Pact with a common understanding
    that an undivided, democratic, and peaceful Europe can only be built
    when the countries of southeast Europe are integrated with the rest of
    the Continent.

    [[Page 578]]

    For that to happen, the countries of the region have to accelerate their
    political and economic reforms, and the donor community needs to support
    the region's efforts.
        I am very pleased by the progress that has been made on both fronts.
    The Governments of southeast Europe have begun to take steps to
    implement the reforms they have promised, including those that will
    improve their investment climate and strengthen the rule of law. And
    today the donor community, including the United States, has reaffirmed
    its support for the region. We have agreed to fund Quick Start Projects
    ready to begin this year that will improve regional infrastructure,
    fight corruption, and advance reform. Countries have pledged $2.3
    billion for these projects, out of a broader package of total assistance
    to southeast Europe in 2000 estimated at over $6 billion. Over 85
    percent of this assistance is being provided by European countries and
    institutions together with international financial institutions. I
    congratulate our European partners for their leadership.
        The message today from Brussels is clear. A democratic southeast
    Europe is on the road to a better future. While Serbia was represented
    at this Conference by the opposition, we look forward to the day when it
    will be represented by a democratic government.