Skopje, 27 July 2025 (MIA) - Upon the invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Timcho Mucunski, participated Saturday in Istanbul at the first meeting of the Balkan Peace Platform. The event was held at the initiative of Minister Fidan and gathered the foreign ministers of Western Balkan countries.

As stated in the press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, the discussions at the meeting focused on European integration, regional connectivity, youth engagement, education, the defence sector, and other current regional issues. It was agreed that the platform should advance to the leadership level.

In his address, Minister Mucunski emphasized the country's commitment to constructive regional cooperation as a driver of economic development. He pointed to the serious challenges facing the region - low competitiveness of economies, insufficient energy and infrastructure connectivity, and youth emigration. Mucunski also pointed to the absence of a predictable and dynamic European path, emphasizing the need for greater determination and leadership in the process of the region’s integration into the EU, especially in the current geostrategic context.

The Growth Plan for the Western Balkans was highlighted as a positive example, with emphasis on its potential to bring tangible benefits to citizens and businesses. Mucunski also underlined the investment commitment in Corridors 8 and 10, as key transport and energy links between the Adriatic, Aegean, and Black Seas, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade stated.

He also emphasized that the region must invest more in human capital, competitiveness, tourism, culture, and education as prerequisites for sustainable development and connectivity.

In his address to the media, Minister Fidan emphasized that stability in the Balkans is a priority for Türkiye, and that the platform aims to address regional issues through enhanced cooperation, energy stability, and connectivity.

On the sidelines of the event, Minister Mucunski held a bilateral meeting with his host, Minister Fidan. The talks focused on bilateral relations, economic cooperation, investment opportunities, and deepening cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade