The EU is optimistic about the implementation, as the new agreement between Serbia and Kosovo will provide the official framework for further EU accession negotiations between the two countries. The Balkans are a bit more skeptical, as nothing has been signed and EU accession efforts in the region have been stagnant for years, which is not a convincing incentive to implement the agreement. The „carrot“ was the „donors’ conference“ to be held 150 days after the deal was approved. The „stick“ was the stalemate in the EU accession process, which had existed for years anyway.