Skopje, 26 November 2025 (MIA) – Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Timcho Mucunski presented on Wednesday a draft National Strategy for Cooperation with the Diaspora 2025–2030, as a five-year plan on developing cooperation with representatives of the diaspora, emigrants and members of the Macedonian national minority.

Minister Mucunski pointed out that the strategy is not just a document, but a presentation of the state's true, systematic and long-term commitment to emigrants.

"This is not a strategy drafted behind closed doors, but in partnership: institutions, experts, organizations, professionals and, most importantly, the diaspora. It means that the Government listens to your needs, suggestions and criticisms. This strategy means that the state is moving towards a modern, digital, accessible and reliable administration. It means that the state is creating a system, rather than improvising; a partnership, rather than a protocol; a long-term vision, rather than ad-hoc measures," Mucunski added.

He pointed to culture as the nation's most persuasive diplomat, as it conveys its soul and identity, which continues to live on through the diaspora. According to him, institutional support for culture, education and language is crucial, because it is precisely language and knowledge that are the roots that preserve our distinctiveness in the globalized world.

The strategy, he said, also strengthens national identity through the development of sports and sports diplomacy, whose achievements reach millions. He stressed that the inclusive approach in drafting the document, builds the state together with all citizens, regardless of whether they live in the country or abroad, viewing the diaspora as bridge of cooperation, ambassadors and partners.

Several ministers from key sectors important in promoting relations with the diaspora also addressed Wednesday's public debate.

As part of the event, representatives from the diaspora, the civil society and the academic community had the opportunity to debate the topics covered in the strategy. The debate will be open to the public in the next few days, and every interested party will be able to provide additional input towards further improving the strategy.

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade