(ANSA-AFP) - SKOPJE, OCT 27 - The European Union has pledged 500 million euros ($504 million) to improve energy infrastructure in the Western Balkans, commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said Wednesday in North Macedonia on the first stop of a tour of the region. The announcement comes as rising energy prices triggered by Russia's war in Ukraine and the onset of winter send shockwaves through European economies already battling rising inflation. According to von der Leyen the help starts with 80 million euros in immediate budget support for North Macedonia to "help address the impact of the high energy prices". "But of course more will come. For example there are 500 million in grants for the whole region to invest in energy connections, energy efficiency and of course renewable energy", von der Leyen said, highlighting the importance of being independent from Russian fossil fuels. Part of the support is through the joint purchase of gas on the global market.

(ANSA-AFP).