Skopje, 31 July 2025 (MIA) - Modernization of water supply systems, reducing technical and financial losses, increasing energy efficiency and improving the performances of public utility enterprises are the key elements for a more sustainable infrastructure and better services for citizens, Deputy Minister of Environment and Physical Planning Ane Lashkoska told an event for promotion of a Swiss-funded project on Thursday.

Project "Resilient and Efficient Utilities in North Macedonia", worth CHF 7.5 million (EUR 8.06 million), is to be implemented in seven large municipalities across the country.

"This is a concrete step towards enhancing the basic public services and environmental standards. Let me thank the Swiss Confederation for its continued support and Ambassador Veronique Hulmann for her commitment and cooperation in advancing our common goals," said Deputy Minister Lashkoska.

CHF 6.5 million of the project funds are provided as grant from Switzerland, whereas CHF 1 million is allocated by the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning.

Ambassador Hulmann expressed satisfaction from the project's implementation, saying water is not available in the quantities as before.

"We should be very careful when managing water resources, through joint commitment and sharing of responsibilities, so that losses are reduced. Amid these challenging times for people, the environment and the economy, water losses should not happen. Water should be treated as treasure, because there is no life without it," added Hulmann.

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