§ Harry CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what progress has been made on European power networks for the Balkans; what remains to be done; when it is expected to be completed; and if she will make a statement. [135441]
§ Mr. TimmsFollowing proposals from the Commission, the countries of the South-East Europe electricity market signed a Memorandum of Understanding—the Athens Memorandum—in November 2002 which would create a single electricity market in the area by 2005, with rules reflecting those of the EU's internal market. The Memorandum also set up a number of institutions collectively called the 'Athens Process'. The agreement paves the way for the eventual integration of the regional electricity market into the wider European one.
The process is taking place in close co-operation with all international donors active on a regional basis and the Stability Pact.