Zhelyazko Radukov, Bulgaria's Ambassador to the Republic of North Macedonia, said he was well aware of the importance of BTA's message and role in Skopje. He addressed a cross-border conference within BTA's Europe on Balkans: Cohesion Skills project, which took place at the BTA National Press Club in Skopje on Thursday.
Radukov emphasized that Bulgaria is interested in the joint development of the two neighbouring countries. "The process is not always easy, but we must lay the groundwork, build ties between peoples in order to overcome differences," he said.
He stressed that one of the ways to make this happen is through education. "Through knowledge and adequate opportunities for young people, we can achieve social development and normal relations between people in the two countries," the Ambassador said. He also noted the role of assistance to the non-governmental sector and people engaged in culture, as well as the creation of financial independence so that they can work and develop.
"Bulgaria's development aid offers considerable opportunities, but we need to teach people how to apply effectively. It is important that this involves Bulgarian theatres, cinemas, producers. In this way, invisible connections are created among people," he said.
The diplomat cited energy independence projects implemented at two educational institutions as a good example: they cut costs and ensure better conditions for education. It is very important to demonstrate the opportunities for obtaining higher education in Bulgaria, Radukov said, adding that a handbook should be created to provide guidance for future students in Bulgaria.
Through the Europe on Balkans: Cohesion Skills project, BTA aims to raise public awareness and foster open dialogue about cohesion policy, local achievements, and the implementation of the EU's policy priorities. The project kicked off with a conference in Veliki Preslav in November 2024. Until September 2025, BTA will host discussions at its press clubs in the following cities: Blagoevgrad, Burgas, Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Vidin, Vratsa, Gabrovo, Dobrich, Kazanlak, Kardzhali, Kyustendil, Lovech, Montana, Pazardzhik, Pernik, Pleven, Razgrad, Ruse, Samokov, Svishtov, Sliven, Smolyan, Sofia, Stara Zagora, Troyan, Targovishte, Haskovo, Shumen, and Yambol. Cross-border conferences will be held in Belgrade, Bosilegrad, Bucharest, Edirne, Skopje, and Thessaloniki. The project builds on the Europe in the Balkans: A Common Future and Europe in Bulgaria: A Common Future projects, implemented by BTA in 2023 and 2024, respectively.
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