New York, 22 September 2025 (MIA) - A meeting of foreign ministers of the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative (AII) was held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Monday. The event represents a historic moment reaffirming shared commitment to regional cooperation, European integration and constructive multilateralism.

The meeting was organized by the Republic of North Macedonia, which took over the one-year chairmanship of the AII for the 2025-2026 period. 

In his address, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Timcho Mucunski highlighted the symbolism of this year, which marks five years since joining the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR), seven years since joining the AII, and 25 years since the signing of the Ancona Declaration - which established this regional initiative.

Under the motto "Strengthening regional unity, promoting the European future", the Macedonian presidency reaffirms its commitment to deepening integration and cooperation between members and their relationship with the European Union. Mucunski stressed the need for a credible EU enlargement process, noting that the Western Balkans must remain a strategic part of the European future.

In this context, the meeting presented the priorities of the Macedonian presidency: strengthening EU integration and regional trust, digital transformation, better infrastructure connection, cultural cooperation and youth support.

At a time of global uncertainty, participants in the meeting sent a clear message: "Unity is our strength, European integration - a common goal."

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade