Skopje, 27 November 2024 (MIA) - We are committed and actively working on meeting our goal – sustainable economic growth and energy independence, said Minister of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources, Sanja Bozhinovska, at the opening of the plenary meeting of the sectoral working group on IPA III – Window 3: Green Agenda and Sustainable Connectivity held Wednesday in the Government.

At the meeting which was attended by over 50 representatives of domestic and international institutions, donors, NGOs, and representatives of the business community, Bozhinovska presented the goals and priorities of the Ministry in the context of the implementation of the reforms for a sustainable energy transition.

“In the implementation of the energy policy we are working with experts, with our international partners whose assistance is vital for a successful implementation of reforms, with the academic and business communities, NGOs... with the goal of ensuring transparency and success of the drafted plans. The goal is to have innovative ideas and a fast modernization and promotion of the energy sector,” Bozhinovska said. 

The Minister said the process would be transparent and fair to all stakeholders.

“This means we won’t prioritize only one company; we want to be open and offer equal opportunities to all. We will increase geological surveys to identify new opportunities for mineral resources in areas that haven’t been surveyed previously, but I would like to emphasize, the health of the citizens will be a priority. We won’t do anything that isn’t in line with the latest standards of the EU, and we will listen to the will of the citizens,” Bozhinovska said.

The Minister said IPA III – Window 3 represents a framework for financial assistance by the European Union aimed at boosting the green agenda and a sustainable energy sector. Funds of EUR 5.2 million will be provided as part of the program in support of projects aimed at reducing harmful emissions, increasing energy efficiency and the development of renewable sources of energy.

“These funds are a significant step forward in achieving the goals for a green energy transition. The cooperation between institutions, donors and the civil sector is key for a successful utilization of these funds,” Minister Bozhinovska said. 

Photo: Government