North Macedonia has assumed the Presidency of the European Union Strategy for the Adriatic-Ionian Region (EUSAIR) and the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative. The handover ceremony took place in Crete, marking the official start of North Macedonia’s leadership.

Orhan Murtezani, the Minister of European Affairs, emphasized the importance of European integration for the country, calling it a generational endeavor. He stressed that North Macedonia’s involvement in EUSAIR is crucial and goes beyond mere symbolism.

Murtezani outlined the key priorities for North Macedonia’s Presidency, with a strong focus on connectivity as a driver of regional development. He highlighted that connectivity encompasses not only physical infrastructure like highways and digital networks, but also the fostering of mutual trust among participating nations.

As the coordinating country for Pillar 2 of EUSAIR, which focuses on “Connecting the Region,” North Macedonia aims to enhance infrastructural, digital, and social links within the Adriatic-Ionian area. The nation aims to build not only roads, but also bridges of understanding and solidarity.

The Presidency will also prioritize sustainable development, innovation, and the blue economy, building upon the foundations laid by the previous Greek Presidency.