30/03/2026 – Mr Nemanja Martinović, Acting Assistant Minister at the Ministry of European Integration, led a delegation during a two-day visit to North Macedonia, aimed at visiting projects implemented under the IPA II Cross-Border Cooperation Programme Serbia–North Macedonia, as well as holding working meetings with partners.
As part of the visit of representatives of the Managing Authority, CBC structures and Joint Technical Secretariats of the three cross-border cooperation programmes managed by Serbia (with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and North Macedonia), a bilateral meeting was also held with colleagues from North Macedonia. The meeting focused on preparations for the upcoming call within the Serbia–North Macedonia Cross-Border Cooperation Programme.
During the meeting, key shared priorities for the upcoming period were defined. Particular emphasis was placed on timely informing a wide range of potential beneficiaries about funding opportunities and participation requirements. An early start to the preparation process enables stakeholders to better assess real cross-border needs, identify reliable partners and develop higher-quality project proposals. This approach is expected to contribute to improved project quality and more efficient use of available funds.
Cooperation between Serbia and North Macedonia has significantly improved since the launch of the first cross-border cooperation Programme (2016–2020). Within IPA III (2021–2027), this progress continues through regular communication and knowledge exchange. Visits such as this one allow partners to share practical experience, further strengthen mutual trust and enhance Programme implementation.
The visit also included tours of projects funded under two IPA II calls, clearly demonstrating the Programme’s tangible impact on the ground. The Programme’s slogan, “Good Friends – New Opportunities,” fully reflects the current state of cooperation: municipalities continue to build partnerships, communities develop joint initiatives based on real needs, and public utility companies further strengthen their capacities. During the visit, the delegation witnessed examples of cooperation that go beyond formal frameworks and deliver concrete results.
The European Union’s support is increasingly visible at all levels within the cross-border Programme area. A growing number of institutions recognize the value of these opportunities and actively engage in new initiatives. Partners remain optimistic about future developments and expect new opportunities to emerge in the coming period.
