Korçë, 21 October 2021 (MIA) – Folk dances, foods, crafts, traditional outfits and joint projects were presented within the North Macedonia-Albania cross-border cooperation program at the 7th European Territorial Cooperation Day that took place on Thursday in the center of Albanian city Korçë, MIA reports. EU Ambassador to North Macedonia David Geer stressed that the event promotes cooperation between North Macedonia and Albania within the EU-funded cross-border cooperation program and serves as a reminder that we’re better when we work together and that we can achieve more if we join forces. “14 projects standing at EUR 6 million for development of tourism, culture, competitiveness and environmental protection were presented today. There will be many more in the future,” Geer said. Ministries implementing the IPA II program for cross-border cooperation 2014-2020 expressed the importance of the EU integration of North Macedonia and Albania. Deputy Minister of Local Self-Government Zoran Dimitriovski stressed that the program is an excellent way for municipalities, civil organizations, business associations, universities, schools and institutions in both countries to respond to the needs of citizens and border regions through cooperation. He added that projects implemented within the program focus on development of tourism, protection of cultural and natural treasure, encouraging competitiveness, business, trade and investments, as well as environmental protection, mitigating the effects of climate change and crisis prevention and management. “Cross-border cooperation is an important aspect of EU policy for territorial cooperation. We expect to join the European family soon because we believe in European values. North Macedonia has established cross-border cooperation with all five of its neighbors. Moreover, the North Macedonia-Albania cross-border cooperation program has funded 14 projects, standing at EUR 6 million,” Dimitriovski said. Korçë mayor Sotiraq Filo underlined that Thursday’s event celebrates EU’s spirit in the city. Besides various projects, the IPA II program for cross-border cooperation between North Macedonia and Albania has also funded several initiatives for stimulating balances, inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development in the border region. The IPA III program for cross-border cooperation between North Macedonia and Albania 2021-2027 stands at EUR 14 million and will be implemented in three regions in both of the countries, namely the Pelagonia, Polog and south-west region in North Macedonia and Dibër, Elbasan and Korçë in Albania.