Public-private partnerships: An important catalyst for infrastructure development.

Infrastructure deficiencies continue to impede economic development in southeast Europe. Local governments committed to introducing private-sector participation in the provision of infrastructure services are often constrained due to lack of resources and capacity. Thus, greater private-sector management expertise and investment are needed to meet demand and accelerate economic growth. The Infrastructure Advisory Program for Southeast Europe provides public authorities with the advisory expertise and means to assist them in accomplishing their goals.

Focusing on energy, transport, water, sanitation, and other infrastructure sub-sectors, the program helps develop, promote, and execute infrastructure projects with private participation. Our advise spans all stages of a transaction from project preparation and structuring to transparent bidding processes and finance mobilization.

By acting as a bridge between private investors and public-sector project sponsors, the program aims to:

• Improve infrastructure access and service delivery to all segments of the society;
• Pursue sustainable economic development through legal, regulatory, environmental, and social framework advice;
• Convene the public sector, local authorities, business community, investors, civil society organizations, and the population to work together on environmentally and socially sustainable solutions;
• Strike a balance between private and public-sector interests;
• Contribute to the transfer of know-how and strengthening of local capacity.