Sofia, 21 September 2021 (MIA) – The European Union is set to invest a total of EUR 30 million in the next seven years in development of cross-border regions in North Macedonia and Bulgaria. Funds will be provided through the Cross-Border Cooperation Programme, managed by the Bulgarian Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works. According to Bulgarian media, Bulgaria’s Deputy Regional Minister Zahari Hristov said that investments will be aimed at development of clean and green environment, sustainable tourism and competitiveness in the cross-border region. The construction of a border crossing between the municipalities of Strumjani and Berovo is one the top priorities. Hristov noted that thanks to INTERREG, cross-border regions in both countries have registered improvement. Access to natural sights has been ensured, ancient fortresses and churches have been restored and support has been provided to local culture, education and sports centers. According to him, these efforts have contributed to improving relations between the two nations. The interregional co-operation programme INTERREG-IPA between Bulgaria and North Macedonia is hosting on Tuesday a virtual tourism fair, to mark European Cooperation Day.