The Ministry of Local Self-Government, the State Agency for Strategic Programming and Aid Coordination (SASPAC) of Albania and the European Union, in Ohrid, officially marked the beginning of the implementation of the IPA 3 Cross-Border Cooperation Program between North Macedonia and Albania, through which 13, 79 million euros for projects, for the period until 2027.

The purpose of the program is to promote sustainable development, environmental protection and socio-economic growth, with a focus on improving the cross-border region through sustainable tourism, cultural heritage and climate change adaptation initiatives.

The event is attended by representatives of municipalities and civil associations from both countries. Representatives from the Operational Structures of both countries, as well as from the EU Delegation in Skopje, informed the participants about the goals of the program, as well as the method of implementation. In doing so, the experience and success of the program from the IPA second program period was highlighted as useful.

The funding is strategically divided between the areas of environmental protection 6.3 million euros, sustainable tourism and cultural heritage 6.3 million euros, and technical assistance in the amount of 1.19 million euros to support the implementation of the IPA 3 program which aims to improve living conditions and create new opportunities for municipalities and citizens from the border region.

With up to 85% of costs covered by the EU, this initiative highlights the importance of cooperation in addressing regional challenges and strengthening local governance. The event was held at the Mountain Rescue Service of the Red Cross in Ohrid, organized by the Joint Technical Secretariat and the Antenna in Albania.