25+ representatives from 10 countries and regional organisations as well as the European Commission gathered virtually to discuss border management cooperation in the Western Balkans. Initiated by North Macedonia as Chair of the South East European Region Working Group (SEE WG), this group discussion was opened to selected European states to foster cooperation beyond the Western Balkans region.
Ms. Nestorovska, State Secretary of the Ministry of Interior of North Macedonia, welcomed participants to the meeting highlighting that the Western Balkan route connects all countries from the SEE WG meaning that most challenges are shared and should lead to common solutions. Following ICMPD’s presentation on their work in the region, countries shared their ongoing partnerships and projects – despite the Covid-19 pandemic – as well as what measures were taken to ensure the safety of border police and migrants. The SEE WG plans to meet physically in 2021 to continue discussions on key topics of relevance to the region should international travel restrictions be lifted.
