Lisbon, 19 June 2026 – First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Affairs, Bekim Sali, participated in the extended session of the Management Board of the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) in Lisbon. The session focused on geostrategic discussions aimed at strengthening preparedness and responses to drug trafficking and emerging psychoactive substance challenges.
During his intervention, Minister Sali reaffirmed North Macedonia’s commitment to aligning its national policies and legislation with EU standards in the fields of security, public health and the fight against organised crime.
He underlined that cooperation with the EUDA is an important step towards strengthening institutional capacities, particularly in establishing an Early Warning System for new psychoactive substances and improving mechanisms for monitoring and addressing drug-related challenges.
Minister Sali stressed that the country’s European integration path requires stronger institutions, effective interinstitutional coordination and full implementation of European standards that enhance citizens’ safety and well-being.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of international partnerships in addressing common threats and strengthening Europe’s collective resilience and preparedness.
