Skopje, 16 October 2025 (MIA) – Enlarging budget sources through European funds, namely the Horizon Europe program, is a real opportunity for sustainable development and to modernize the Municipality of Chair, said Izet Mexhiti, Vlen’s candidate running for mayor of Chair in Sunday’s local elections.

Mexhiti said Thursday his team will focus on creating diversity in the budgetary structure and securing fresh financing in order to increase capital investments and long-term development project. 

To that end, he added, we are constantly exploring different ways for financing in order to build a more developed, innovative and competitive Chair.

“According to available data, North Macedonia has received a net of only approximately 12 million euros from Horizon Europe, which is only 0.03 percent of the available funds. This clearly shows that there is room for progress and that it is time the municipalities, especially Chair, to take more active role,” Mexhiti told a news conference. 

Chair, he added, will adopt a fresh approach in development by applying for projects so as to increase investments, boost job creation and more quality services for the citizens by using European funds and international cooperation. 

Mexhiti also presented the four priorities of his municipality development program: energy and energy efficiency; green transition and waste management; digitization and information technologies, and innovations and scientific research. 

“Our goal is clear and ambitious: Chair [municipality] to become a leader in using European funds in the Republic of North Macedonia. Together, with dedication, transparency and knowledge, we will create Chair of the future – green, digital and innovative,” Mexhiti concluded. 

Photo: Izet Mexhiti's election camaign HQ