Skopje, 21 October 2025 (MIA) - Minister of Digital Transformation Stefan Andonovski addressed a panel on AI and innovation as part of a Ministerial Meeting of the Western Balkans Steering Platform on Research and Innovation, organized by the European Commission and European Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva, in Podgorica on Monday and Tuesday. 

According to the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Andonovski pointed out that “Macedonia is transforming its approach to innovation, from a fragmented system to an integrated, effective and European-aligned model.” He presented INOVA, the national mechanism for innovation and entrepreneurship, which brings together the Ministry of Digital Transformation, the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Education and Science - into a unified structure that enables real results on the ground.

"Innovation is no longer just a technological issue - it is an economic, social and strategic issue. With INOVA, we ensure coherence, integration and inclusiveness at all levels," said Andonovski.

As part of the new infrastructure, he also highlighted INNOFEIT EDIH - the first European Digital Innovation Hub in the country, which provides support for small and medium-sized enterprises in the form of access to AI capacities, digital twins, mentoring and training, through the Digital Europe Programme. 

Particular emphasis was placed on the new national AI centre - VEZILKA, funded through the Horizon Europe and EuroHPC programs, which connects North Macedonia to the European AI network, including access to supercomputers, shared data spaces, and training for key sectors.

"As President von der Leyen said - ‘the future of AI needs to be made in Europe’. From Skopje, I would add - sometimes that future needs to be made right here, at home - but with Europe as our partner and with European values ​​as our guide," Andonovski said. 

The Ministry points out that the event brought together ministers and high representatives from the Western Balkans and the EU, discussing regional and European cooperation in the area of digital transformation, innovation and the application of AI.

Photo: Ministry of Digital Transformation