Promotional video for the project “Green for Good – G4G”

We are pleased to share the promotional video for the project “Green for Good – G4G”, which is implemented within the framework of the Interreg IPA Cross-Border Programme “Greece – North Macedonia 2021-2027”.

The project aims to contribute to a greener and more sustainable future by encouraging green mobility, using renewable energy sources, improving urban green spaces and raising public awareness of climate and environmental challenges.

Through joint cooperation, exchange of experiences and implementation of practical green solutions, the project partners work to create a cleaner, more resilient and more sustainable living environment for the citizens of the cross-border region.

The promotional video presents the main objectives, activities and expected benefits of the project, as well as the vision for a green transition and a better quality of life in the region.

Watch the video on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-5fJebkiDQ

Representatives from CDSEPR participated in the 2nd General Meeting of the ELeVATE project in Spain

Representatives from the Center for Development of the South-East Planning Region (CDSEPR), as an associative partner, participated in the second General Meeting of the ELeVATE project: Empowering Women in Net-zero Technologies for the Smart Electricity for Buildings (SEB) sector – Bridging the Gap through Vocational Education and Training, which was held on 14–15 May 2026 in San Sebastian/Donostia, Basque Country, Spain.

The meeting was held at the Centro Elbira Zipitria and brought together partners from several European organizations in order to analyze the progress made so far and coordinate the next project activities.

In accordance with the agenda, the operational management of the project, the quality of implementation and updating of risks and measures within the risk register, as well as improving the efficiency of coordination between partners, were discussed.

The partners presented the progress of the baseline study, the analysis of the net-zero technologies sector for smart electrical systems in buildings, as well as the results of benchmarking and good practices. They also discussed the assessment of needs and barriers, focus groups with women, development of profiles, mapping and a competency framework for mentors, in order to strengthen the capacities and support of women in the net-zero technologies sector and the SEB industry.

Representatives from the CRJIPR actively participated in the discussions and contributed to the exchange of experiences and strengthening the regional perspective regarding the inclusion of women in the energy transition and technology sectors.

The meeting represents an important step in the further implementation of the ELeVATE project and strengthening European cooperation in the field of sustainable energy, innovation and gender equality.

Representatives from the Centre for Development of the South-East Planning Region participated in the 3rd General Meeting of the SEBCoVE project in Spain

Representatives from the Centre for Development of the South-East Planning Region participated in the 3rd General Meeting of the SEBCoVE – Smart Electricity for Buildings – Centres of Vocational Excellence project, which was held on 12 and 13 May 2026 in San Sebastian/Donostia, Basque Country (Spain), within the framework of the Erasmus+ program.

The two-day meeting brought together partners from several European countries, with the aim of monitoring the progress of the project, coordinating ongoing activities and planning the next steps for the development of centers for vocational education and excellence in the field of smart electrical systems and energy efficiency of buildings.

During the first working day, the activities of Work Package 4, which concerns the development of SEBCoVE centers, were presented, during which the creation of professional profiles, the development of digital curricula and training materials, the introduction of innovative learning methods, digital tools, augmented reality applications, as well as models for cooperation and financial sustainability of the centers were discussed.

Additionally, the partners discussed the implementation of the trainings and the certification process of the participants within the framework of Work Package 5, as well as the establishment of quality systems in accordance with ISO 21001 and EQAVET standards. Activities related to monitoring, evaluation, internal audits and mechanisms for monitoring the quality of the project activities were also presented.

During the second working day, discussions were held on project management, administrative and financial coordination, progress of project reporting and sustainability of results. Particular attention was paid to the dissemination and communication of the project, the organization of events and seminars, production of a promotional video, as well as networking with other European initiatives and projects.

The participants also had the opportunity to visit an integrated vocational education and training center in Usurbile, where good practices and modern approaches in vocational education were presented.

The SEBCoVE project aims to contribute to the advancement of vocational education, the development of modern skills and the strengthening of cooperation between educational institutions, companies and organizations in the sector of smart electricity and sustainable technologies.

Centre for Development Participates in SIJMA Interregional Meeting in Leipzig

The Centre for Development of the South-East Planning Region actively participated in the second interregional meeting held on 28–29 April 2026 in Leipzig, Germany, organised within the project “Social innovations for job opportunities and development in mining areas in transition across Europe – SIJMA”, implemented under the Interreg Europe Programme. The meeting was hosted by the project partner Aufbauwerk Region Leipzig, Germany.

The meeting brought together project partners and regional stakeholders from across Europe with the aim of exchanging experiences, strengthening cooperation, and identifying innovative approaches to address labour market challenges through social innovation, particularly in regions undergoing transition.

Importantly, the delegation from the South-East Planning Region also included an expert and a stakeholder representatives, who were actively engaged in the workshop sessions. Their contribution ensured that the regional perspective was strongly reflected in the discussions, particularly in identifying challenges and proposing practical solutions relevant to the local context.

During the first day, participants took part in a series of study visits across the Leipzig district, where they explored practical examples of successful initiatives. These included a student cooperative in Borsdorf, a youth engagement centre at Störmthaler See, and the transformation of former mining areas into sustainable development zones. The visit also included a presentation on regional cooperation and structural transition in Central Germany, as well as a company visit showcasing innovation in the private sector.

On the second day, the meeting continued in Borna with a Steering Committee session and expert presentations focused on structural changes in European regions. A dedicated workshop enabled partners to jointly identify key challenges, compare regional contexts, and discuss potential solutions within the SIJMA framework. The session also facilitated the exchange of good practices and ideas for improving employment opportunities through social innovation, with active input from the regional expert and stakeholder.

The participation of the Centre contributed to strengthening the regional perspective of the South-East Planning Region, while also providing valuable insights that will support the development of future measures and policies aimed at enhancing employability and social inclusion.

The SIJMA project continues to serve as an important platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the promotion of innovative solutions that respond to the evolving needs of regional labour markets.

FIREDEFEND’s participation at the “Forward Green Expo” in Thessaloniki – exchange of experiences and promotion of sustainable practices

On March 27, the project team of the Centre for Development of the South-East Planning Region, as a partner in the FIREDEFEND project, participated in the 4th International Circular Economy Exhibition “Forward Green Expo”, which was held as part of the “Renewable Energy Tech” event in Thessaloniki, Greece.

Participation in this important international event enabled the exchange of experiences, knowledge and good practices with relevant institutions, experts and organizations from the region and beyond, in the field of risk management, environmental protection and sustainable development. Special emphasis was placed on modern approaches and innovative solutions related to the circular economy and renewable energy sources.

Through participation in the exhibition, the team had the opportunity to learn about new technologies, tools and practices that contribute to improving fire prevention and management systems, as well as more efficient waste and natural resource management – topics that are directly related to the objectives of the FIREDEFEND project.

Within the framework of the event, a partner meeting of the FIREDEFEND project was also held, at which the activities to date, the progress achieved and the challenges in the implementation were reviewed. The partners discussed the next steps, in order to improve the cooperation and ensure the effective and timely implementation of the project activities.

Participation in such events contributes to strengthening regional and cross-border cooperation, as well as to the application of modern solutions for addressing the challenges related to climate change and environmental protection.

#FIREDEFEND #ForwardGreenExpo #RenewableEnergy #CircularEconomy #SustainableDevelopment #ClimateAction

   

The first working meeting for the “Heart Safe CBA” project was held

On March 24, 2026, the implementation of the project “Towards a Heart-Safe Cross-Border Area” (Heart Safe CBA) officially began, with the holding of the first working meeting.
The project is implemented within the framework of the Interreg IPA Greece – North Macedonia Cross-Border Cooperation Programme 2021–2027, co-financed by the European Union and the national funds of the participating countries.
The event was attended by representatives of all partner institutions – the Center for Development of the South-East Planning Region, the AHEPA General Hospital of Thessaloniki and the Society for Emergency Pre-Hospital Care of Greece. The meeting discussed the coordination of activities, defining the next steps and strengthening cross-border cooperation in the field of emergency medical care.
The project envisages significant investments in the healthcare infrastructure in the South-East region. The procurement and installation of 18 automatic (mobile) defibrillators in public locations, including municipal facilities and border crossings in Gevgelija, Dojran and Novo Selo, is planned. Additionally, 6 semi-automatic defibrillators, 6 ECG devices and 4 fully equipped ambulances will be provided for the needs of health centers.
Special emphasis at the meeting was placed on the organization of an extensive education program. Within the framework of the project, 60 trainings on first aid using defibrillators will be implemented, intended for doctors, medical staff, employees of several institutions, as well as for citizens from the region.
With the implementation of these activities, the “Heart Safe CBA” project aims to improve the emergency medical care system, increase the readiness to respond to cardiac emergencies and contribute to creating a safer and more resilient cross-border community.

First G4G workshop, focused on sustainable tourism – held in Thessaloniki

On 23 March 2026, the first workshop of the Green for Good (G4G) project was held at the CERTH premises in Thessaloniki, organised and hosted by CERTH/HIT.

The event brought together the project partners – Centre for Development of the South-East Planning Region, CISS International Cooperation South-South Branch Skopje, Centre for Research and Technology Hellas, and the Municipality of Thermi, and together with the other participants, they contributed to a constructive exchange of views and proposals on sustainable tourism and the smart planning of destinations.

The workshop combined presentations with an interactive case study focused on Thessaloniki as a strategic tourism destination, creating space for discussion, reflection and the sharing of practical ideas. Participants explored how tourism can be developed in a more balanced and sustainable way, while also responding to the needs of local communities and visitors.

As the first workshop organised within the G4G project, the event marked a meaningful start to this series of activities and highlighted the value of cooperation, knowledge exchange and working together toward more sustainable and resilient communities.

Successful implementation of the Kick-off press conference for the Green for good project

On 4 March 2026, at Hotel “Sirius” – Strumica, the kick-off press conference for the “Green for Good” (G4G) project was held, implemented under the Interreg VI-A IPA Programme “Greece – North Macedonia 2021–2027.” The project is co-funded by the European Union and the national funds of the participating countries.

The event was organized by the Centre for Development of the South-East Planning Region, with the participation of project representatives, institutions, government officials and media.

Media statements were delivered by Zlatko Perinski – Minister of Local Self-Government, Petar Jankov – President of the Council for Development of the South-East Planning Region and Mayor of Municipality of Strumica, and Jovan Kocev – Acting Director of the CDSEPR, followed by their welcome addresses, together with an address by Goran Boshkov – a representative of CISS. In his address, the Acting Director of the CDSEPR, Jovan Kocev, emphasized: “The value of this project lies not only in the individual activities, but also in the foundation it lays for long-term change. It strengthens the region’s capacity to plan and invest strategically, with better coordination among municipalities and alignment with national policies and European programmes.”

After the opening speeches the “Green for Good” (G4G) was presented as well as the promotional video for the project. The project is aimed at reducing pollution and improving air quality; increasing the use of renewable energy and introducing smart energy management; advancing sustainable mobility; developing green urban infrastructure and environmental education; and strengthening cross-border cooperation through joint initiatives and governance structures.

The project also foresees specific actions and investments, including the installation of 8 fast EV charging stations across the cross-border region, the installation of photovoltaic systems in several municipalities, and the establishment of Green Education Centres, with the goal of delivering long-term and sustainable benefits for the community.

The event concluded with a Q&A session and a constructive discussion on the upcoming activities and next steps in the project implementation.

 

“Cross-border cooperation for Fire Detection and Enhanced Fire Emergency Network for Waste Disposal”

On March 6, 2026 in Thessaloniki, Greece, was officially held the kick-off meeting of the project FIREDEFEND – Fire Detection and Enhanced Fire Emergency Network for Waste Disposal, launching the implementation of the project activities.

During the meeting, the partners presented their organizations and project teams as well as the planned activities and work packages. Key aspects of project management, financial and administrative rules, communication obligations, as well as the next steps for the successful implementation of the project were discussed.

The project aims to improve the early detection systems of landfill fires and strengthen the capacities for prevention and risk management, through the installation of pilot systems for early fire detection and the exchange of experiences and good practices between partners from Greece and North Macedonia.

A study visit to the Thermi-Panorama Ecological Park, which is successful example of the transformation of a former uncontrolled landfill into a modern ecological park, was also organized by Lead Partners as part of the event.

We express our sincere gratitude to our Lead Partners – FoDSA (Regional Association of Solid Waste Management Agencies in Central Macedonia) for the excellent organization and hospitality.

The FIREDEFEND project is implemented within the framework of the Interreg VI-A IPA Programme Greece – North Macedonia 2021–2027, co-financed by the European Union and the national funds of the participating countries.

#FIREDEFEND #Interreg #CrossBorderCooperation #Environment #FirePrevention

 

Representatives from associations and the business sector elected as members of the Development Council of the SEPR

Within the framework of the procedure carried out in accordance with the legal regulations and the published Public Call, a member was selected from among the associations of the Council for the Development of the South-East Planning Region.

The Local Action Group “Belasica – Ogražden” from Bosilovo, represented by Mr. Sašo Popovski, was selected as a representative from the associations.

Also, the Economic Chamber of the Republic of North Macedonia nominated Mr. Riste Skileski as a representative from the business sector, after which an appropriate decision was made for his membership in the Council for the Development of the South-East Planning Region.

This composition allows for broader involvement of the civil and business sectors in the processes of regional development in the South-East Planning Region.