Skopje, 16 March 2023 (MIA) - Minister of Environment and Physical Planning Kaja Shukova met Thursday with French Ambassador Cyrille Baumgartner, who reaffirmed France's commitment for continued support to North Macedonia's environment sector.

Minister Shukova and Ambassador Baumgartner discussed opportunities for enhancement of cooperation, with the former presenting the priorities of her term in office, specifically the setup of waste management systems across the country, the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning said in a press release.

Interlocutors also discussed the initiatives for establishment of a communal police as an important tool that is missing in this regard.

Ambassador Baumgartner referred to several areas of possible cooperation and support provided by France, such as the project for construction of photovoltaic power plants in Shtip and Sveti Nikole through innovative technology that would also ensure local economic development and application in agri-energy, but also provide enormous contribution in the energy independence and decarbonization in the process of implementing the green agenda.

The option of a credit line for companies and local self-governments realized by the French Development Agency (AFD) and the Development Bank of North Macedonia was also discussed.

The AFD's project on energy efficiency of buildings in 17 countries across the globe, including North Macedonia, was also in focus, as were the possibilities to use technical assistance for cultural heritage, civilian population, fires, soil etc.

In addition, the French government has provided technical support and experience exchange to the Ministry, reads the press release.

Photo: Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning