Skopje, 31 March 2026 (MIA) — Minister of Environment and Physical Planning Muamet Hoxha and EU Ambassador Michalis Rokas met Tuesday for talks on protecting and developing the Prespa Lake region, both reaffirming their commitment to preserving its unique ecosystem.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning, the European Union plans to increase efforts to protect Prespa Lake, which meeting participants described as a natural beauty of extraordinary importance for the entire region. 

Minister Hoxha thanked the EU for its ongoing support and stressed the importance of further promoting cooperation regarding long-term protection and sustainable development.

Ambassador Rokas said environmental protection remains a top European priority. He also highlighted Prespa as an example of successful cross-border cooperation.

Hoxha and Rokas agreed that mutual efforts would help preserve the region's natural and cultural heritage and improve the locals' quality of life.

The EU, through its "EU for Prespa" and other programs, will continue funding long-term projects focused on biodiversity, waste and water management as well as local economic growth, the release said. mr/