Kavadarci, 5 May 2023 (MIA) – Our goal is to make it possible for Macedonian producers to use the non-refundable EU assistance funds, said Deputy Prime Minister in charge of European affairs Bojan Marichikj, at a presentation of the IPARD Program on Friday in Kavadarci.

“I am pleased with the fact that current results show there is interest for the IPARD Program and for the new IPARD 3 Program, which will be presented to the Macedonian farmers through activities such as this one. This is the best way for you to get acquainted with the opportunities provided by the Program and the importance of making use of every available European fund for the improvement of Macedonian agriculture. Our goal is to make it possible for Macedonian farmers to use the available non-refundable EU assistance funds, so that as many of you as possible can be more competitive and create sustainable businesses in agriculture,” said Marichikj.

The Deputy PM stressed that the IPARD assistance undoubtedly encourages the development of Macedonian agriculture, and the results, he added, are visible on the ground.

“In the EU, we are recognized as leaders in the region when it comes to using funds from the IPARD II Program, with 98 percent of funds used. Which is why we have deservedly been awarded by the European Commission with an additional 62 percent of non-refundable EU support for the new 2021-2027 IPARD III Program. This means an additional EUR 97 million of non-refundable funds are being made available for new investments, development and modernization of Macedonian agriculture,” said the Deputy PM.

According to Marichikj, this is “the strongest evidence why we are and why we need to remain on the EU path”.

“You are the ones who should be the biggest supporters of EU accession, because the European agricultural policy offers the greatest benefits and opportunities for you. When it comes to farmers, EU membership means free access to the EU’s single market. This means that our country will be a part of the European Economic Area and the single market of EU member states, which opens up new opportunities for Macedonian producers,” said Marichikj.

Deputy PM Marichikj spoke about the access to a significant portion of EU funds for financing rural development, which would create opportunities for easier modernization of agriculture and production for Macedonian farmers, as well as the production of higher quality and more competitive products.

The body in charge of managing IPARD funds at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy, launched a promotional campaign aimed at introducing prospective beneficiaries with the opportunities for using IPARD funds.

Photo: MIA