In an important step towards the objectives of accession to the EU, North Macedonia and Albania launched the Cross-Border Cooperation Program IPA 3 today in Korça. Funded by the EU with a budget of 13.79 million euros, this initiative underlines the commitment of both countries to aligned with EU standards for sustainable development and regional integration until 2027. In addition to the launch of the Programme, a forthcoming call for proposals under the IPA 3 program was announced, inviting stakeholders to participate in this transformative initiative . "This initiative not only targets key areas such as environmental sustainability and socio-economic development, but also serves as a crucial step towards our ultimate goal of EU integration. The new call for proposals will open very soon, offering new opportunities for impactful projects," said Altin Zeqo, director of Convergence and Cohesion with the EU, SASPAC. While Vullnet Arifi, head of the Department for the EU and CBC Coordinator, Ministry of Local Self-Government, North Macedonia, emphasized the impact of the program in accelerating EU membership aspirations. "Building on the foundations laid by IPA 2, this program aligns our regional policies with EU standards, paving the way for anticipated accession. The next call for proposals will give more energy to our communities to "was deeply engaged with our EU integration process," said Arifi. Briseida Gjoza from the Macedonia-Albania Antenna Office emphasized the comprehensive approach of the program. "IPA 3 has been meticulously designed to increase our regional capabilities to meet EU criteria, focusing on climate resilience, sustainable tourism and cultural heritage conservation. We encourage stakeholders to prepare for the next call , which promises to strengthen our collaborative efforts," said Gjoza. Otherwise, this strategic investment of the EU through the IPA 3 program is evidence of the continuous efforts of North Macedonia and Albania to join the EU, marking a direct message for their journey towards European integration.