Aliu: The EU4Health agreement brings new opportunities for the modernization and development of healthcare

Health Minister Azir Aliu announced at today’s press conference that the agreement for the country’s inclusion in the EU4Health programme has been signed, describing it as an important step toward further aligning Macedonia’s healthcare system with European policies and standards.

According to Aliu, the signing of the EU4Health Agreement in Brussels represents a significant development for Macedonian healthcare. He said this is the European Union’s largest programme in the field of health and that the country’s membership is clear proof of the state’s European perspective, as well as of confidence in the reforms currently being implemented.

The minister noted that the programme creates numerous opportunities for developing projects in digital health, in the prevention and early detection of diseases, in screening programmes, in oncology, in cardiovascular and mental health, in preparedness for health crises, in access to medicines and medical products, as well as in strengthening the capacities of healthcare personnel.

He also explained that EU4Health has an operational budget of 4.4 billion euros and represents the European Union’s largest investment in the health sector. Through membership in this programme, Macedonia gains the right to actively participate in European calls, grants, public procurement, joint actions and partnerships with institutions from member states and participating countries.

Aliu stressed that the agreement provides for exemption from VAT, customs duties and other fiscal obligations for goods and services financed through the programme. According to him, this is particularly important because European funds should be directed as much as possible toward the implementation of projects of public interest and the improvement of healthcare services for citizens.

He underlined that true success will not be measured solely by formal membership in the programme, but by the ability to turn European opportunities into concrete results for the healthcare system and for citizens.

The minister stated that the Ministry is prepared and that, starting next week, the next phase will begin, including the active presentation of the programme, the identification of potential beneficiaries and the preparation of institutions for participation in European calls. He added that the goal is to bring this opportunity closer to universities, medical faculties, clinics, hospitals, institutes, professional associations, patient organizations and all other relevant actors in the healthcare system.

According to the announcement, the Ministry of Health remains committed to using all available European mechanisms to advance healthcare, develop modern services and build a more sustainable, more efficient and more accessible healthcare system for citizens.