Memorandum of Cooperation in the Field of Regional Development Discussed by Deputy Prime Minister Grozdan Karadjov and Minister Fikrim Damka

Cooperation in the field of regional development was discussed at a bilateral meeting today by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Regional Development Grozdan Karadjov and Minister of Regional Development of the Republic of Kosovo Fikrim Damka. The two expressed readiness to intensify the partnership in this area by signing a memorandum between the two ministries.

"We are interested in deepening the partnership with Kosovo and developing new contacts in all areas of cooperation. For us in the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works, regional policy, urban development, construction are important," said Deputy Prime Minister Karadjov.

"We welcome your efforts for economic growth, the fight against corruption and organised crime. The Bulgarian government has also declared zero tolerance for corrupt practices and we could cooperate in this area," said Grozdan Karadjov.

The Deputy Prime Minister pointed out that so far the strongest tool to support municipal projects are European programs, which financed the renovation of schools, kindergartens, social, health and road infrastructure. "Our country also participates in territorial cooperation programs aimed at having sustainable municipalities on both sides of the border, which are usually underdeveloped," he added.

A new instrument will be launched this year - a fund for municipal development and cohesion, which will assist municipalities in the improvement of settlements. With its funds, local authorities will be able to assist in the preparation of projects, which will subsequently apply for funds from other sources of funding.

"The mission of the Ministry of Regional Development is to develop policies and programs for regional development and interregional cooperation to reduce regional inequalities. Within this, we include 3 programs under the approved budget of the Ministry for 2022", said Minister Fikrim Damka. He explained that the first program aims to help municipalities with capital investments. The second is aimed at achieving balanced regional development and aims to support the business with subsidies. The latest program provides assistance to civil society organisations.

Bulgaria and Kosovo can co-operate on projects funded by the European Union and exchange experts and experience from projects implemented in recent years, it became clear during the meeting.

It was also attended by Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works Stefan Asparuhov, Katerina Gramatikova - Head of the Political Cabinet, and Desislava Georgieva - Director of the Directorate for Territorial Cooperation in the Ministry. Minister Damka was accompanied by Secretary General of the Ministry of Regional Development Besim Kamberaj, Political Adviser Ercan Silik, Delfin Plana - Interim Head of the Embassy of the Republic of Kosovo, and Mustafe Avdiu - Counselor at the Embassy.

At the initiative of Minister Damka and the accompanying delegation, representatives of the Kosovo Ministry of Regional Development will visit sites in Sofia funded by European funds. Later today on the spot they will get acquainted with the implemented measures in NATFA "Krastyo Sarafov", the National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski" and the National Academy of Music "Prof. Pancho Vladigerov". Their buildings have been renovated under projects implemented with funding from the Operational Program "Growing Regions" managed by the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works.