NEWS: Official Establishment of the Regional Blue Economy Network in North Macedonia as Part of the Regional Initiative IPA ADRION – GROWTH4BLUE

On October 9th, 2025, at the premises of the Macedonian Chambers of Commerce in Skopje, a key event marked the official establishment of the Regional Blue Economy Network (RBEN) in North Macedonia as part of the IPA ADRION – GROWTH4BLUE initiative. The event opened with remarks from Goran Gjorgjievski, President of the Chambers of Commerce, who emphasized the growing importance of the blue economy for sustainable development, job creation, and stronger regional cooperation. He noted that the newly formed network will help unlock opportunities for economic advancement through improved partnerships and knowledge exchange.

The GROWTH4BLUE project team, led by Project Manager Dragan Pehchevski and National RBEN Coordinator Mile Boshkov from the Business Confederation of Macedonia, presented the project’s research findings, strategic objectives, and planned activities. They highlighted how the initiative will support long-term regional collaboration and strengthen national capacities in the blue economy sector.

A central moment of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), confirming the commitment of participating institutions and organizations as official RBEN partners. Following the signing, an engaging discussion took place in which partners contributed their expertise on topics such as workforce transformation, innovation, and the sustainable use of water resources.

The RBEN network aims to connect public and private institutions, research and educational centers, as well as ecological and innovative businesses. Its priorities include developing skills linked to the blue economy, fostering technological advancement, promoting “blue jobs,” and supporting sustainable water resource management.

With the formal establishment of RBEN, North Macedonia strengthens its role in advancing a sustainable regional blue economy. The initiative enhances transnational cooperation, encourages the exchange of best practices, and lays the foundation for coordinated action in environmental and economic development. Through the IPA ADRION – GROWTH4BLUE project, the country joins regional partners in building a more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable future driven by responsible use of water resources.