Kosovo unilaterally proclaimed independence from Serbia on February 17. It has since been recognized by most EU member states, as well as the U.S.
"The aim of the Donors Conference for Kosovo will be to collect pledges from donors for Kosovo's socio-economic development, and to create the conditions for growth, investment and jobs for all communities in one of the poorest parts of Europe," said Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn.
"Bringing growth and prosperity to the poorest part of Europe will help secure stability in the western Balkans," he added, calling upon donors to contribute generously to Kosovo's development.
EU member states, key international donors, and international financial institutions, as well as international and UN agencies have been invited to attend the conference.
Kosovo's annual GDP per capita is estimated at 1,774 euros ($2,732). With the new state's unemployment rate around 40%, a key challenge over the next three years for the EU will be to bring about the growth necessary to bring this figure down.
