Skopje, 3 April 2026 (MIA) — Macedonian Ambassador to Serbia Nikola Tupanchevski met Friday with Serbian Foreign Ministry Secretary General Dushan Kozarev, with both sides noting that relations between Belgrade and Skopje have reached a historic high.

They said this year marked two important anniversaries: 30 years since diplomatic ties were established and 80 years since Macedonians began settling in Vojvodina. 

The talks focused on boosting economic and cultural cooperation as well as cooperation on infrastructure and energy. Also noted was the recent opening of the Macedonian consulate in Panchevo as an important step in strengthening relations.

Kozarev said Serbia remains committed to the Open Balkan initiative, calling it a “mini-Schengen” that can help countries move closer to joining the Schengen area. Meeting participants agreed that the two countries were among the most advanced in the region in working together and removing controls and restrictions.

They also discussed European integration, stressing mutual support for joining the EU and readiness to exchange experiences and deepen cooperation. mr/