Again, no bell went off, but looking back some 12 months later, we can see a rapid trend upwards. So my theme for you all is that in the Balkans, a bell at the bottom of the market has rung. I would like to use my time with you this afternoon to share my views on why the recent changes in Southeast Europe are profound, widespread, and durable. We are approaching this project with many partners and from many angles, from security and political reform to police training and economic development. In the past year, the region has made significant progress.
Most people are more aware of the black holes in the Balkans than of the glimmers of hope.
To be sure, Serbia, Montenegro, and Kosovo remain deeply troubled and their travails often dominate headlines. It would be irresponsible to make light of the dangers there. Overall, however, the Balkans picture is not monochrome. Rather, the reality of Southeast Europe is much more complicated and more encouraging. Croatia has a new government committed to reform, whose policies represent a fundamental turnaround for the country.