Mavrovo, 10 February 2025 – The Minister of European Affairs, Orhan Murtezani, today opened the event “Protecting the Public Financial Interests of EU-Funded Infrastructure Projects”, which is being held in Mavrovo and organized by UNOPS.
In his address, the Minister emphasized the key role of trust in institutions, the rule of law and responsible management of public finances.
“Trust is not given, it must be earned and protected through transparency, accountability and unwavering integrity. That is why we are here today,” Murtezani emphasized.
He emphasized the importance of cooperation between institutions to ensure that EU-funded infrastructure projects are implemented with the highest standards of integrity.
“With the approval of our reform agenda, North Macedonia has gained access to over 750 million euros through the EU Reform and Growth Instrument – a significant opportunity, which at the same time requires strict financial supervision. The European Commission has made it clear: progress in the fight against corruption is not an option – it is a necessity,” the Minister stressed.
The Minister underlined that infrastructure projects are vital for the development of the country, but without strong anti-corruption mechanisms, they risk becoming a symbol of lost potential.
In this context, the Ministry of European Affairs remains committed to strengthening institutional cooperation, financial supervision and a zero-tolerance approach to corruption.
“Our path to the European Union is, above all, a path of trust. The choices we make today will define our future. We must ensure that our legacy is credibility, resilience and good governance,” the Minister concluded.
The event is attended by representatives of the Government, the European Union, domestic institutions, as well as international experts in the field of financial supervision and management of public funds.
The following is the integral text of the address:
Dear Deputy Prime Minister, respected representatives of the European Union and institutions of North Macedonia, respected experts and guests,
At the core of every democratic society lies TRUST - trust in institutions, in the rule of law, in the responsible management of public finances. Trust is not given, it must be earned and protected through transparency, accountability and unwavering integrity. That is why we are here today.
This workshop is more than an exchange of expertise, it is a confirmation of our collective responsibility to ensure that public funds serve the public good. I express my gratitude to UNOPS, whose program "Knowledge for Reform Action in the Western Balkans" played a significant role in strengthening governance and regional cooperation.
With the approval of our reform agenda, North Macedonia has gained access to over €750 million through the EU’s Reform and Growth Instrument – a significant opportunity, which at the same time requires strict financial supervision. The European Commission has made it clear: progress in the fight against corruption is not an option – it is a necessity. Infrastructure projects, which are vital to our development, are particularly vulnerable. Without strong anti-corruption safeguards, they risk becoming symbols of lost potential, rather than drivers of progress.
The Ministry of European Affairs is committed to ensuring that the highest standards of governance and accountability guide all reform efforts. Enhanced inter-institutional cooperation, strengthened financial supervision and a zero-tolerance approach to corruption will be key. But reform is not just about implementation, it requires a change in mindset, where integrity is not only expected, but also required.
This workshop is an opportunity to exchange best practices and reaffirm our commitment to protecting public finances. No institution is without oversight, no individual is above responsibility.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Our path to the European Union is, above all, a path of trust. The choices we make today will define our future. We must ensure that our legacy is one of credibility, resilience and good governance.
I am confident that the upcoming discussions will strengthen our resolve to protect the public financial interests. Once again, I thank UNOPS for its unwavering support and all of you for your commitment. Let this workshop be another step towards stronger institutions, deeper reforms and a European North Macedonia.
Thank you.
