Skopje, 23 February 2026 (MIA) - Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Inter-Community Relations, Ivan Stoilkovikj, met Monday with Tatjana Macura, Serbia’s Minister without portfolio in charge of gender equality, prevention of violence against women and economic and political empowerment of women.

“The meeting highlighted the joint commitment to the enhancement of cooperation between the two countries, with a special emphasis on points that connect us in the area of gender equality, protecting women from violence, and promoting economic and political participation of women, as well as strengthening the institutional dialogue on these issues,” Stoilkovikj’s office said in a press release. 

Stoilkovikj and Macura discussed the importance of integrating a gender perspective in the policies related to the communities, considering the need for an equal approach to rights, services, and opportunities for all citizens, including women from various ethnic and social environments. Special attention was paid to economic empowerment of women as a prerequisite for greater social inclusion and reduction of vulnerability. To that end, the ministers assessed opportunities for further cooperation through the exchange of experiences and good practices, expert communication between the institutions, and initiating joint activities within regional initiatives.

“The meeting was assessed as constructive with a voiced readiness for regular communication and concrete steps aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries in areas of mutual interest,” the press release said.

Photo: Deputy PM Stoilkovikj’s Office