The Minister for European Affairs, Orhan Murtezani, is participating today in Montenegro at the High-Level Conference on Regional Economic Integration entitled "Strengthening. Integrating. Growing", together with his colleagues from the region and representatives of the European Union. Within the first session "Pre-accession Benefits: From SEPA to Green Paths and Beyond", the Ministers for European Affairs and the Chief Negotiators with the EU from the Western Balkans countries addressed the implementation of the New Growth Plan and the key priorities for fostering regional integration and alignment with the Union.
Minister Murtezani, in the context of integration, stressed that North Macedonia has fully accepted the regional priorities of the European Commission's Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. “Since the European Union adopted the Growth Plan in November 2023, North Macedonia has made significant progress on its path towards deeper integration into the Union. This initiative has been crucial in aligning our national policies with EU law, establishing a clear basis for our ultimate goal – achieving full EU membership. By actively participating in this plan, we are improving our institutional frameworks, while at the same time improving economic resilience and promoting sustainable development. The Growth Plan reflects a strategic commitment to comprehensive reforms that foster economic growth, strengthen governance and strengthen democratic institutions, thereby advancing our aspirations for full EU accession.” – emphasized MEP Murtezani.
The following is the full text of the address:
Dear colleagues, distinguished media representatives and distinguished guests,
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to join you at this distinguished gathering for the important dialogue “Pre-accession Benefits: From SEPA to Green Paths and Beyond”, with the overarching theme “Strengthening. Integrating. Growing”. These words embody the vision and commitment that North Macedonia is making in its journey towards enhanced integration into the European Union.
In North Macedonia, strengthening is not just a political goal, but a guiding principle. We are committed to strengthening our institutions, citizens and economy. Reflecting on the current situation in North Macedonia, we have made excellent progress in implementing our Reform Agenda. Namely, we have made progress in securing pre-financing through communication with the Commission, given that the Loan Agreement has been approved by the Government and should be ratified by the Parliament next week, in accordance with the applicable legal procedures and in full compliance with the standards of the European Commission. My role as National Coordinator for IRR highlights our commitment, along with the development of a well-structured IRR framework. This framework, carefully developed with input from our institutions, will ensure clear roles and responsibilities, facilitating the comprehensive implementation, monitoring and evaluation of our priorities.
In our drive for integration, we have fully embraced the regional priorities of the Growth Agenda. Our support for initiatives such as the Green Lanes underlines our commitment to improving customs procedures and implementing the decisions of the CEFTA Joint Committee. The SEED platform has been key, and we are actively exploring its expansion to cover a wider range of goods and routes. The Green Lanes pilot project with Greece, which is still ongoing, is an example of our proactive approach to facilitating trade.
Growth is the fruit of our collective efforts, the visible fruit of empowerment and integration. It is a testament to our commitment, seen in the innovation that emerges from our entrepreneurs, the creativity that comes from our artists, and the indomitable spirit of resilience that defines our communities. Our growth strategy is deeply rooted in strategic partnerships and comprehensive reforms, laying the groundwork for a future where prosperity is shared and opportunities abound for all. Growth is not just an economic criterion, it is the foundation of a thriving society, reflected in the vitality of our workforce and the strength of our collective spirit.
This growth is reflected in our ambitious projects and initiatives. We are fostering an environment where digital transformation is not just a goal, but a reality. Initiatives like Free Wi-Fi for the Western Balkans (Wifi4WB) and the European Digital Innovation Hubs are improving connectivity, ensuring that every corner of North Macedonia is connected to the digital world. These projects are not just about technology, they are also about inclusiveness, ensuring that all our citizens can participate in and benefit from the digital economy.
Our journey towards SEPA membership has been marked by a formal application to the European Payments Council, supported by extensive preparations and legislative improvements, in crucially, the adoption of the Law on the Prevention of Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism. We are making this effort to improve the position of our financial sector and strengthen trade relations in the European Economic Area. Embracing the digital transformation, we are prioritizing initiatives such as Free Wi-Fi for the Western Balkans (Wifi4WB) and the European Digital Innovation Hubs, key to our digital strategy, strengthening connectivity and fostering innovation across North Macedonia.
In the region, our active participation in the Berlin Process and the Regional Single Market Action Plan 2025-2028 is a confirmation of our commitment to unity and cooperation. The recent adoption of the Law on the Ratification of the Agreement on the Recognition of Professional Qualifications opens up opportunities for our people, encouraging mobility and opportunities across the Western Balkans.
As time goes by, communication becomes the thread that binds our efforts and aspirations. Timely, proactive and effective communication is key to mitigating the potential consequences of disinformation and fake news. The Ministry of European Affairs, with the support of an EU-funded project, is preparing a Communication and Visibility Plan that will illuminate North Macedonia’s path towards EU integration. This plan aims to bring the benefits of our Reform Agenda closer to our citizens and stakeholders, ensuring that opportunities and gains are visible and accessible. Our strategy will evolve from clarifying programming documents and funding opportunities, to showcasing the real impacts of our initiatives, fostering deeper understanding and engagement among all those who could benefit from it.
Since the European Union adopted the Growth Plan in November 2023, North Macedonia has made significant progress on its path towards deeper integration into the Union. This initiative has been key in aligning our national policies with EU law, establishing a clear basis for our ultimate goal – achieving full EU membership. By actively participating in this plan, we are improving our institutional frameworks, while enhancing economic resilience and promoting sustainable development. The Growth Plan reflects a strategic commitment to comprehensive reforms that foster economic growth, strengthen governance and strengthen democratic institutions, thereby advancing our aspirations for full EU accession.
Finally, let us continue to strengthen, integrate and grow, creating a legacy of progress and prosperity for generations to come.
Thank you.
