Reconstructing of transport sector in the balkans and its effects to Turkish foreign trade

A significant proportion of the transportation investments in Balkan countries was realized during 1970?s and 1980?s whereas the required repair and maintenance operations were neglected to a large extent. Besides, along with the impact of the wars, economic instability and political chaos, transportation infrastructure of the Balkan countries was both damaged and poorly developed. Balkan countries lag behind the EU-27 countries with respect to the intensity, quality and efficiency of the transportation infrastructure. Therefore, development of an efficient transportation infrastructure is one of the most fundamental challenges for the region. A more efficient transportation system across Balkan countries is of necessity not only for economic stability across the region but also for international transit transportation.The purpose of this dissertation thesis is to assess the current state of the transportation infrastructure in Balkan countries and to shed light on the possible developments with regard to the transportation infrastructure of the region as well as on their potential repercussions on Turkey. The thesis employs a deductive method. The thesis is built on the hypothesis that the transportation policies of Balkan countries are determined by the interests of the EU and that the future transportation infrastructure and transportation policies of the region is to be developed in line with the needs of the EU, which have the potential to result in some opportunities and problems for Turkey. Results reached support the hypothesis to a considerable extent.