Skopje, 11 September 2025 (MIA) - Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Timcho Mucunski, and the UN Resident Coordinator in North Macedonia, Rita Columbia, signed on Thursday the new UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2026–2030), a key strategic document that will guide the work of all UN agencies in the country for the next five years.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, the priorities to be addressed in the 2026-2030 period support inclusive social and human development, sustainable economy and decent work, resilient and green society and ecosystems, as well as the rule of law and good governance.

The Cooperation Framework is a key strategic document that will guide the work of all UN agencies in the country for the next five years. It builds on the ongoing cooperation between the UN and the Government, providing a basis for close partnerships between national and international partners in promoting the achievements of the National Development Strategy (NDS) 2024–2044, the European Union integration process and the 2030 Agenda (Sustainable Development Goals).

"The Cooperation Framework is a key strategic document that will guide the work of all UN agencies in the country for the next five years. A document of which we are all very proud! All activities within the new Cooperation Framework agreement are aligning with our country's European integration path. The new Cooperation Framework has been developed in close cooperation with the Government, following extensive consultation with various institutions and organizations, reaffirming the inclusiveness of the process. Our Government will continue to work closely with the UN to achieve more sustainable development and will remain firmly committed to building a prosperous and inclusive society, creating conditions for a brighter and healthier future for all our citizens," Mucunski said, as cited in the press release. 

The UN Cooperation Framework represents a joint UN offer in support of the national development priorities of the Government of North Macedonia.

"The new cooperation agreement is the result of our shared vision with the Government, shaped by valuable insights from civil society, academia, and people from every corner of our community. This agreement represents our shared commitment to improving the lives of everyone in the country. Together, we have identified four key priorities that are interconnected and designed to support each other. These priorities are aligned with the National Development Strategy and represent a joint commitment to promoting sustainable development, leaving no one behind. The UN will work side by side with the people of North Macedonia to create a brighter future for all!," said Rita Columbia. 

A total of 15 UN agencies, programmes and funds (FAO, ILO, IOM, ITU, UNDP, UNECE, UNEP, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNIDO, UNOPS, UN Women, WHO) have signed the Cooperation Framework, committing to support and contribute to the country's progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in the coming period.

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade