Unlocking the Future: Fostering Cross-Border Cooperation Among Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia

Embark on a trek through the intertwined landscapes of Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia, where the past, present, and future converge in a tapestry of collaboration. These three nations, bound by geographical proximity and a shared European destiny, are poised to break new ground in cross-border cooperation, transcending historical challenges and envisioning a future of shared prosperity.

 

Forging Unity through EU Membership

At the heart of this collaboration lies the trilateral cooperation fueled by their shared commitment to the European Union. The membership of Greece and Bulgaria, coupled with North Macedonia’s candidacy, lays the foundation for seamless cooperation. EU membership streamlines the flow of products, trade, and people, easing bureaucratic burdens and fostering an environment of shared laws, aligned taxation, and market openness.

Bridging Borders: A Geographical Tapestry

The physical connection between these three countries is: 148 km shared by North Macedonia and Bulgaria, 493 km between Bulgaria and Greece, and 262 km between Greece and North Macedonia.

Trade Figures: A Glimpse into Economic Dynamics

Dive into the economic currents as we explore the trade figures. In 2021, significant exchanges unfolded: Greece exporting $1.84 billion to North Macedonia, North Macedonia exporting $405 million to Bulgaria, and Bulgaria exporting $3.55 billion to Greece. These figures illuminate the economic dynamics, emphasizing the advantages of EU membership for fostering robust economic cooperation.

Cross-Border Cooperation: From Vision to Reality

Despite the historical challenges, trilateral cooperation unveils a positive outlook, with political tensions transformed. As we examine the potential for further development, we unveil a roadmap shaped by the Erasmus+ program, Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance, and Interreg.

Recommendations for a Collaborative Tomorrow

Drawing upon the ‘ANALYSIS OF THE CURRENT STATE OF CROSS-BORDER COOPERATION FOR YOUTH EMPLOYABILITY AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP’ we propose a roadmap for the future:

  • Deepening the Positive Atmosphere: Strengthen the positive atmosphere for cooperation by building platforms and allocating resources for societal collaboration, particularly focusing on the youth.
  • Trilateral Strategy for Youth Collaboration: Develop a trilateral strategy with dedicated funds to foster collaboration, placing the youth at the center of cross-border initiatives.
  • Amplifying Youth Programs: Utilize existing youth cooperation programs like Erasmus+ and bolster civil society networks, offering additional co-financing and support from municipal and state actors.
  • Political Harmony for Future Cooperation: Encourage political actors to refrain from creating divisive atmospheres, emphasizing good neighborly relations to enhance cross-border opportunities for the youth.
  • Collaborative Platforms for Institutions: Facilitate joint platforms and networks among educational institutions, businesses, and civil society organizations to advocate for cooperation and harness the positive outlook for future collaboration.

 

‘As we unravel the potential within these nations, the call for unity, collaboration, and a shared vision resounds. Together, Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia have the power to redefine the narrative of cross-border cooperation and create a future where borders are not barriers but gateways to shared prosperity’