Skopje, 17 September 2025 (MIA) - Minister of European Affairs, Orhan Murtezani, held a working meeting with Minister of European Affairs of the Czech Republic, Martin Dvořák, in Prague on Wednesday, highlighting close and friendly cooperation between the two countries and reaffirming the strategic commitment to deepen bilateral relations and boost cooperation within the European integration process. 

Minister Dvořák acknowledged North Macedonia's ongoing progress in the European integration process, stressing the importance of implementing reforms as a foundation for EU accession negotiations. 

Murtezani expressed gratitude for the Czech Republic's vocal and consistent support for the enlargement policy, highlighting its role as a principled and trusted partner in this strategic process, the Ministry of European Affairs said in a press release.

He pointed out that European integration remains a strategic priority for North Macedonia, with the transfer of Czech institutional experience and expertise in the area of ​​accession negotiations and the use of European funds representing a significant resource in promoting national capacities.

Murtezani and Dvořák noted that consistent reform implementation is not only a prerequisite for progress in EU accession negotiations, but an essential factor in strengthening the trust and credibility of the entire European integration process.

"Participants in the meeting also highlighted the importance of development and technical assistance, as well as the fruitful cooperation so far through the IPA Twinning and TAIEX instruments. In that regard, Murtezani noted there are significant opportunities to deepen this cooperation in multiple sectors, including through joint projects within the European territorial programs, such as Interreg Europe and Euro-Med," reads the press release. 

Minister Dvořák pointed out that the Czech Republic is ready to share its experience in the area of European policies and support the institutional strengthening of North Macedonia through new forms of partnerships.

Dvořák and Murtezani welcomed the successful implementation of several significant projects supported by the Embassy of the Czech Republic in North Macedonia, aimed at improving educational conditions, with a special emphasis on children with special needs, as well as encouraging local development through layout of pedestrian and bicycle paths and support for youth initiatives, the press release reads. 

The Ministry added that interlocutors also discussed the possibility of expanding bilateral development cooperation into new areas of mutual interest, including through the exchange of expertise and knowledge relevant to European integration. 

In addition, interlocutors agreed to continue regular political dialogue and promote economic, institutional, and development cooperation, with a shared vision for a stable, prosperous, and European integrated region.

Photo: Ministry of European Affairs