The new Interreg-IPA "Bulgaria – the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" cross-border programme focuses on measures aiming at mitigating the effects of climate change and at addressing issues related to the conservation of nature and biodiversity, the sustainable use of natural resources, environmental protection and risk management at cross-border level. A key focus of the programme is also put on the protection of the natural and cultural heritage sites in the region. Moreover, funding will help enhance the competitiveness of SMEs and facilitate their access to new markets.

The Interreg IPA CBC programme covers 2 border regions in Bulgaria and 3 regions from the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. It is worth more than €19 million with a contribution of nearly €17 million from the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA).

The 5 NUTS III or equivalent regions involved in the Interreg IPA CBC Bulgaria - the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia programme are:
• In Bulgaria: Districts of Blagoevgrad and Kyustendil.
• In the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia: North East, South East, and East regions
 

The programme will focus on the following three priorities:
• Environment;
• Sustainable tourism;
• Competitiveness.