In a highly positive measure to stimulate the economy in the Southeast Europe through Tourism, The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and its Greek counterpart, Hellenic Aid, are enthusiastically working together in close quarters. Venturing to pool their resources, these two agencies have consented to work for the progress and development of businesses, products and services that can accommodate visitors in addition to infrastructure to support the growing economy like energy and sanitation systems. Most notably, this association shall contribute to further American and Greek investment in the whole region.

USAID and Hellenic Aid are jointly working with 15 companies in addition to local chambers of commerce and nongovernmental organizations to pool together the technical support and expertise required to develop the tourist trade. To meet the above said end, U.S. and Greek experts from power grid construction to environmental education, craft, souvenir, hospitality and agricultural businesses are to be hired.

The plan comprises of producing jobs by opening several of the region's communities, natural and cultural attractions to global and regional markets. In addition, it rests heavily on providing incentives to invite cruise lines, resorts, restaurants and hotels in addition to other components of the tourism industry to join hands with the partnership focused on Albania and the northern region of Montenegro.

Thomas Mefford, USAID's deputy assistant administrator for Europe and Eurasia observed, "The region has spectacular beaches and a stunningly beautiful interior with gorges for rafting and mountains for eco-tourism. The Greeks have an interest in developing the Balkans. It's their backyard."