22 May 2026
As part of the launch of projects under the cross-border cooperation programme between Kosovo and North Macedonia, the European Union Office in Kosovo announced that the project for the Sharri Mountains, “Every Step Matters – Ecotourism for Environmental Protection in the Sharri Mountains”, has also been supported.
The package of projects under the cross-border cooperation programme includes a total of €3.24 million for six projects that will strengthen regional cooperation and bring tangible benefits to local communities, helping improve the quality of life in the cross-border region between Kosovo and North Macedonia.
Over the next two years, projects in the Sharri Mountains and surrounding areas will support environmental protection, sustainable tourism and local economic development.
This includes new opportunities for adventure and wine tourism, more environmentally friendly wine production and job creation, alongside investments in improved waste and wastewater management, clean water supply, flood protection, national park conservation and greener heating solutions for local schools.
The supported projects are:
-BNS – BIO NATURAL SOLUTION – Wastewater Management and Water Protection (Mamuša and Bogovinje)
-REDUCE – Joint Efforts for Waste Reduction and Sustainability (Ranillug and Butel)
-Every Step Matters – Ecotourism for Environmental Protection in the Sharri Mountains
-Sustainable and Competitive Wine Industry Initiative (Rahovec, Gazi Baba, Gostivar and Mavrovo)
-Green Schools Initiative (Ferizaj and Brvenica)
-No Floods through Active Citizens in the Border Region (Klokot and Rankovce)
Alessandro Bianciardi, Deputy Head of the EU Cooperation Sector in Kosovo, joined the award ceremony in Prishtina together with Kosovo’s Acting Minister of Local Government Administration, Elbert Krasniqi, and North Macedonia’s Minister of Local Self-Government, Zlatko Perinski.
“Six new EU-funded cross-border partnerships will strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises, helping traditional industries and local entrepreneurs reach their full potential. They will also contribute to cleaner air, more energy-efficient schools, the protection of mountains and rivers, and the protection of agricultural land from adverse weather conditions,” Bianciardi said.
As Kosovo’s strongest and most reliable partner, the EU continues to support practical cooperation that improves everyday life and helps the region advance on its European path.