17th September 2026, Skopje - Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) is a longstanding and valuable partner of our country in implementing projects aimed at advancing education, strengthening social infrastructure, and supporting micro, small- and medium-sized enterprises. The cooperation is focused on implementing projects that deliver tangible benefits for citizens and contribute to the country’s economic growth. These issues were discussed at today’s meeting between Minister of Finance, Gordana Dimitrieska-Kochoska, and Tomáš Boček, Vice-Governor of the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB), covering the implementation of ongoing projects and the future cooperation.
“We remain committed to strengthening our partnership with CEB, with a focus on supporting projects that deliver better public services, higher-quality education and stronger economic development,” Minister of Finance, Gordana Dimitrieska-Kochoska, underscored.
The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) has been present in this country since 1997 and has so far approved loans for 10 public sector projects amounting to EUR 314 million, while also providing substantial support in securing investment grants and technical assistance grants for project preparation. CEB support has primarily been directed towards social infrastructure and social integration, including healthcare, education, judiciary and social housing, alongside support for micro, small- and medium-sized enterprises.
Among the topics discussed was the implementation of ongoing projects, including additional financing with loan and grants amounting to EUR 24.1 million, intended for construction, supervision and equipping of 30 sports halls in primary schools, as well as reconstruction of primary and secondary school facilities. This support builds on a successfully implemented project under which 70 sports facilities were constructed and equipped in primary schools, and 90 primary and secondary schools were reconstructed.
Cooperation with CEB also includes a EUR 50 million credit line in support of job creation in micro, small- and medium-sized enterprises, being implemented through the Development Bank.
Particular focus was placed on the preparation of projects for the forthcoming period, including the Project for Completion of Construction of the Facilities of the Faculty of Information Science and Computer Engineering and Construction of the Faculty of Physical Education, Sports and Health Facility in Skopje at Ss. Cyril and Methodius University.
Future cooperation will also focus on the implementation of the Basic Digital Infrastructure Project. This Project is aimed at improving digital infrastructure and supporting the digital transformation process.
The meeting expressed a shared commitment to continuing and deepening cooperation between Ministry of Finance and CEB, with a particular focus on the efficient implementation of ongoing projects and the support for new investments that contribute to the country’s economic and social development.
