We have made clear that the nations of southeast Europe must undertake reforms to attract investment. And they must work together. This cannot be a race in which the better-off countries in the region try to escape the Balkans at the expense of their neighbors. European nations, appropriately, are taking the lead in this effort, pledging with the international financial institutions more than 85 percent of all assistance to the region. These efforts are beginning to make an impact.
Inflation is down.
Major road work is underway in Albania, along with improvements to the main border crossing between Macedonia and Kosovo, and road and rail bridge construction in Bosnia. The region also is overcoming the legacy of war. The Stability Pact has spurred cooperation to remove landmines, and to use children's textbooks to break down ethnic stereotypes. Bosnia now has a vigorous democracy, refugee returns continue to rise, and people are increasingly looking for leaders who deliver jobs, instead of preaching hate. Croatia finally enjoys democracy, and I am pleased to announce that President Clinton will welcome President Mesic and Prime Minister Racan to the White House August 9.