Ohrid, 1 December 2025 (MIA) - Signing of co-funding agreements between the project implementers and the Ministry of Local Self-Government marked Monday in Ohrid the launch of two projects "Volunteers in Action for People's Safety and Nature Protection" and "Krushevo and Elbasan - Travel in Nature and Adventure", funded through the EU-funded cross-border cooperation programme between North Macedonia and Albania.

Minister of Local Self-Government Zlatko Perinski said the projects cover a significant cross-border area with rich nature, culture, tradition and vast unused potential.

"This region is facing serious challenges such as depopulation, underdeveloped infrastructure, risks of natural disasters and environmental impact. That is why these projects focus on two key priorities: environment protection and raising the area's resilience by strengthening the risk management capacities, improved management of natural resources and protected areas; and development of sustainable tourism and protection of the natural and cultural heritage through creation of joint tourism services, promotion of local traditions and opening of economic opportunities for new businesses," said Minister Perinski.

According to him, municipalities in the region are the generators of efficient cooperation, with the programme providing an opportunity to strengthen their administrative capacities, build partnerships, develop solutions to improve their everyday lives and become active in implementing European policies ahead of the EU membership.

The two projects promote sustainable regional development, environmental protection, and community safety, while strengthening cooperation within and between local communities across the border. They also aim to build regional capacities for sustainable tourism growth. The total amount of these projects is more than EUR 1.6 million, the EU Delegation has said in a press release.

EU Ambassador Michalis Rokas said the projects correlate with the Union's efforts to promote friendly ties across borders, in areas that face challenges or are somehow neglected by the national authorities.

"Therefore, these types of partnerships are very important for us, they have always been in the focus of our attention, because these are projects not only promoting friendship but helping the EU integration process. Managing economic challenges, protecting the environment and social inclusion are the main areas of the European programmes. They promote togetherness in building trust and solidarity, provide support to balanced development of regions and strengthening of European values," said Ambassador Rokas.

The EU-funded Cross Border Cooperation programme North Macedonia - Albania is one of the 5 programmes in which North Macedonia is involved with its neighbors. This programme aims at enhancing cross-border collaboration and fostering regional development. This EU funding package in the amount of around EUR 12 million is designed to support projects that promote economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social integration across both nations. By investing in strategic partnerships and community-driven projects, this financial injection is set to bring transformative change, facilitate shared goals, and deepen the ties between neighboring communities.

Photo: MIA