Skopje, 15 July 2025 (MIA) - Minister of Local Self-Government Zlatko Perinski met Tuesday with Hungary’s Minister of Regional Development, Tibor Navracsics, as part of his official visit to Budapest.

According to the Ministry of Local Self-Government, the goal of the bilateral meeting was the enhancement of cooperation between the two countries and the establishment of firm foundations for the exchange of experiences and knowledge in regional development and local self-government, as well as the exchange of practices in using EU funds. 

“The past year, we thoroughly analyzed the situation on the ground and the municipalities’ need for long-term development. We began with the biggest support for municipalities so far, provided by the Government in partnership with Hungary, funding capital infrastructure projects in all municipalities,” Minister Perinski said, adding that through well-planned policies, support for the local economy and targeted investments in infrastructure, a more sustainable system can be built. 

Perinski highlighted the importance of transferring knowledge and successful practices from Hungary, especially around effective assistance for municipalities, reforming the institutional structure of the Ministry of Local Self-Government and the digitization of local services.

Talks also focused on opportunities provided by the EU URBACT programme, which enables cooperation and the exchange of innovative ideas between European cities.

“Cooperation with countries such as Hungary, which has a rich experience with European funds, can provide a significant contribution in the creation of our strategic directions for sustainable and balanced development,” Perinski stressed.

Photo: Ministry of Local Self-Government