Dimitrieska-Koçoska: We are deepening cooperation with the CEB in education, digitalization and economic growth

Finance Minister Gordana Dimitrieska-Koçoska met with Tomáš Boček, Vice-Governor of the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB). According to the Ministry of Finance, the talks focused on the implementation of ongoing projects and plans for future cooperation.

Dimitrieska-Koçoska said that the partnership with the CEB would be further strengthened, with support directed toward projects that deliver more efficient public services, improve the quality of education and promote economic development.

The CEB is considered an important partner of the country in implementing initiatives related to education, social infrastructure and support for small businesses. The bank has been active in the country since 1997 and has so far approved loans for 10 public-sector projects worth a total of €314 million. In addition, it has provided significant support through investment grants and technical assistance for project preparation.

CEB assistance focuses on infrastructure and social integration, including the healthcare, education, justice and social housing sectors, as well as micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. During the meeting, the parties reviewed the progress of current projects, including additional loan and grant financing totaling €24.1 million. These funds are earmarked for the construction, supervision and equipping of 30 sports halls at primary schools, as well as the renovation of primary and secondary schools.

This financing follows the successful completion of a project through which 70 sports facilities were built and equipped at primary schools, while 90 primary and secondary schools were renovated. The Ministry of Finance said that cooperation with the CEB also includes a €50 million credit line intended to create jobs in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, which is being implemented through the Development Bank.