Serbia and North Macedonia have launched a new cross-border cooperation initiative, focusing on employment and social inclusion.
The programme, backed by the EU’s Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA III), will offer €5.4 million in funding to support projects aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions in both countries. The call for proposals opened on 5th September, and participants have until 22nd October to submit their ideas.
Emanuele Giaufret, the EU Ambassador to Serbia, emphasised the importance of this initiative in promoting regional ties, noting that it reflects the union’s commitment to cooperation, democracy, and prosperity. He added that the programme is part of a broader IPA III initiative, with similar projects to be launched between Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as Serbia and Montenegro. The key areas of focus will include employment, workforce mobility, and tourism development.
Serbia’s Minister for European Integration, Tanja Miščević, and North Macedonia’s Minister for Local Self-Government, Zlatko Perinski, both praised the programme for its potential to foster stronger economic partnerships and promote intercultural collaboration. The initiative is seen as a crucial step towards improving relations and achieving long-term development in the region as both countries work towards EU membership.
Photo: europa.rs