Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance signs EUR 22.2 million contracts for 19 INTERREG Greece–North Macedonia projects

Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance announced the signing of funding contracts for 19 new projects under the INTERREG VI-A IPA Cooperation Programme Greece–North Macedonia 2021–2027, with a total budget of EUR 22.2 million. Signed by Alternate Minister of National Economy and Finance Nikos Papathanasis, the agreements complete the signature process for approved projects from the joint call covering biodiversity, tourism, health and the circular economy. The selected actions include health-focused projects aimed at improving service provision and access, particularly for vulnerable groups, through digital tools for prevention, diagnosis and monitoring, alongside measures to strengthen cross-border preparedness and support a shift towards community-based and family-based care. Other projects focus on circular and resource-efficient economy measures such as reducing, reusing and recycling materials, circular farming and the use of agricultural residues, as well as initiatives on environmental protection, biodiversity and green infrastructure including forest fire prevention and management, and cultural heritage and sustainable tourism supported by digital tools and accessibility improvements. Following the completion of signatures, the programme has activated 90% of its budget and project implementation begins immediately. A total of 75 institutions participate, including 39 from Greece and 36 from North Macedonia, with coverage in Greece across Thessaloniki, Kilkis, Pella, Serres, Kozani and Florina and in North Macedonia across the Vardar, Pelagonia, Southwest and Southeast regions.