Skopje, 24 January 2024 (MIA) - Minister of Local Self-Government Risto Penov announced Wednesday the launch of the IPA III cross-border cooperation programme worth EUR 100 million in 2024.

Minister Penov told panel on agriculture and balanced regional development within conference "Year of European Opportunities" that municipalities, planning regions, NGO sector and businesses can apply for these funds, with projects fully funded by the EU, along with a 15-percent state subsidy.

According to him, 2023 saw a five-fold increase in investments into regional development compared to 2016.

"2023 was a year of success in the field of regional development. Back in 2016, the former authorities invested EUR 2.8 million in regional development, whereas the amount stood at EUR 14 million last year. We realized 135 successful projects selected by municipalities, i.e. citizens. We built road infrastructure but focus was placed on fire protection, with all municipalities across the country getting new fire-fighting equipment. We invested for all citizens, regardless of partisan, religious or ethnic affiliation," said Penov.

He added that the Government is focused on increasing the funds for balanced regional development.

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