Minister of European Affairs, Orhan Murtezani, met today with the newly appointed Ambassador of Japan to North Macedonia, Setsuko Kawahara. The meeting discussed the continued support that Japan provides to North Macedonia, as well as future opportunities for deepening bilateral cooperation.
Minister Murtezani highlighted the excellent cooperation between the Ministry of European Affairs and the Embassy of Japan, as well as the significant support that Japan provides to the country within the framework of Official Development Assistance, worth over 425 million euros. The focus of the conversation was on bilateral cooperation, which is currently being implemented through technical assistance, human resources development programs and projects at the local level. Minister Murtezani emphasized the excellent cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and expressed gratitude for the continued engagement and long-term contribution from the Japanese side.
The interlocutors welcomed the entry into force of the Technical Cooperation Agreement last year, which allows for even more efficient coordination of development assistance. Ambassador Kawahara noted that North Macedonia is an important partner for Japan, with which it shares common values. She emphasized that the stability and prosperity of the Western Balkans, as well as the region's European integration, are of crucial importance not only for Europe, but also for the entire world.
