Skopje, 30 September 2024 (MIA) – In 2022, at the Tirana meeting, we made key steps, including our fruitful cooperation as part of Erasmus Plus program, as well as the smart specialization strategies. We joined our efforts together for the EU Agenda for the Western Balkans focusing on Innovation, Research, Education, Culture, Youth and Sport and we make sure young generations feel the benefits from this process, said Iliana Ivanova, European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth.

In her speech opening the Ministerial Meeting on the EU Agenda for the Western Balkans focusing on Innovation, Research, Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, organized Monday in Skopje by the EU Delegation, said she respected the country’s efforts and commitment to implementing the EU Agenda’s strategies. 

“Since our last meeting in Tirana in 2022, we achieved many key steps we should be proud of. I should mention our fruitful cooperation for the Erasmus Plus program, which is key on the path to EU accession. The smart specialization strategies are also considered the cornerstone of the Western Balkans agenda. I appreciate very much your commitment to successfully implementing these strategies,” added Ivanova. 

Culture, she added, is also a vital pillar of cooperation as it unites diversities.

“This year’s ministerial culture platform is our second edition and we are committed to strengthening cooperation in this field. I should mention our Creative Europe program, established in 2020, for which Western Balkan cities can apply to be picked as the European cities of culture. Novi Sad had presented an excellent culture program in 2022 and I’m looking forward to seeing what Skopje will offer in 2028,” the Commissioner said. 

She said she’s been noticing a moderate momentum in the enlargement process and urged everyone in the region to implement all EU Agenda criteria. 

“We’ve all made joint efforts for the Western Balkans agenda for innovation, research, culture, youth and sport to accelerate the conversation of our economies toward the EU and together we are making sure that the most valuable capital in the region, young generations, feel the benefits from this process. We’ve come a long way, and lot of work is ahead. I expect an inspirational exchange of views here, in Skopje,” Ivanova stated. 

The Skopje Ministerial Meeting brings together ministers from North Macedonia and the region, as well as officials from relevant European Commission directorates, international organizations and the business community. 

Photo: MIA