AGP Executive Report

Human Rights Spotlight: North Macedonia-linked case Iva Mihaylova is back in focus after President Iliana Iotova urged the Council of Europe to ensure she gets medical treatment, saying Bulgaria rejected options and the situation is “absolutely unacceptable.” Foreign Policy & Security: The U.S. plans to reprogram $52 million in military aid away from Slovakia, North Macedonia, Tunisia and Iraq to Panama, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, citing narcoterrorism and security around the Panama Canal. Education & Youth Safety: A civil society warning says scrapping the sex education rollout will put young people at greater risk of sexual- and gender-based violence. Sports (Regional): Switzerland named Sion forward Winsley Boteli in its Nations League squad, which includes matches involving North Macedonia. Energy & Industry: North Macedonia is advancing a 400MWh battery project, while a solar forecasting platform says it is already running verified day-ahead forecasting in the country. Local Justice: Skopje prosecutors filed an indictment over an arson attack on Bulgarian diplomatic vehicles outside the embassy in June.

Human Rights Clash: President Iliana Iotova told Council of Europe officials in Strasbourg that Bulgaria must allow injured North Macedonian citizen Iva Mihaylova access to treatment she needs, saying Skopje rejected a Bulgarian specialist team and that the case is being treated as a political issue. Diplomatic Fallout: The dispute follows Bulgaria’s earlier public push via Bulgarian media and Iotova’s letters to Council of Europe bodies, with the Council of Europe saying it reviews the broader human-rights picture. Regional Justice: In The Hague, Kosovo’s Specialized Chambers sentenced Hashim Thaçi and others, while Serbia’s Aleksandar Vučić criticized the verdict and argued the court did not establish crimes against humanity. Security & Money: The US plans to reprogram $52 million in military financing away from Slovakia and North Macedonia to Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Panama, citing “narcoterrorism” and security around the Panama Canal. Local Accountability: North Macedonia’s opposition SDSM says the State Anti-Corruption Commission’s probe into Independence Day spending is too narrow and wants prosecutors to investigate the full €5.5 million event costs. Energy Push: ESM is advancing a 100MW/400MWh battery project at REK Bitola, with EBRD considering a sovereign-guaranteed loan up to €33.1 million.

Independence Day Spending Probe: North Macedonia’s main opposition SDSM says the State Anti-Corruption Commission’s look at a possible conflict of interest tied to Independence Day celebrations is too narrow, urging the Public Prosecutor’s Office to investigate the full financing and organization of the €5.5 million event, including the role of composer/producer Nikolche Micevski. Energy Investment: ESM is pushing a first utility-scale standalone battery energy storage system at the REK Bitola complex—100MW/400MWh—with a €98 million package and potential EBRD sovereign-guaranteed financing up to €33.1 million. US Aid Shift: The Trump administration is redirecting $52 million in US military financing away from Slovakia, North Macedonia, Tunisia and Iraq to Panama, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, citing “narcoterrorism” and securing the Panama Canal. EU Border Update: Nine EU countries, including Greece, have delayed full rollout of the Entry/Exit System, aiming to keep border checks from disrupting busy airports. Sports Spotlight: Scotland’s new coach Sébastien Pocognoli has named Luke Graham and recalled Oli McBurnie for Nations League matches that include games against North Macedonia.

U.S. Military Aid Rewired: The Trump administration will reprogram $52 million in foreign military financing away from Slovakia, North Macedonia, Tunisia and Iraq to Panama, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, citing “narcoterrorism” and security for the Panama Canal after Marco Rubio’s recent South America trip. EU Integration Push in Skopje: North Macedonia hosted a regional meeting on EU enlargement where officials discussed accelerated reforms, better government-parliament coordination, and harmonizing legislation for accession. Eurovision Return: MRT confirmed North Macedonia will come back to Eurovision 2027 in Burgas, with a more transparent selection process promised. Culture & Heritage: Albania, Greece and North Macedonia are preparing a joint UNESCO bid for Prespa, aiming for stronger protection and a tourism boost. Adriatic Film & TV Awards: North Macedonia’s “DJ Ahmet” leads film nominations, while “Mother” is among top TV contenders ahead of the 2026 Adriatic Film and TV Awards. Nations League Context: Scotland’s new coach Sébastien Pocognoli named a squad that includes a trip to North Macedonia, with Oli McBurnie recalled.

UNESCO Push for Prespa: Albania, Greece and North Macedonia are preparing a joint bid to get the Prespa region listed as UNESCO World Heritage, aiming to boost cross-border cooperation, protect nature and culture, and lift sustainable tourism. Nations League Spotlight (Scotland): New Scotland coach Sébastien Pocognoli has named a revamped squad for Nations League games that include a trip to North Macedonia, with big changes and several first-time call-ups such as Sevilla striker Robbie Ure and Stoke defender Luke Graham. Fuel Relief in North Macedonia: North Macedonia cuts fuel VAT from 18% to 10% for a limited period (Sept. 15–28) to ease price pressure amid supply concerns. Culture in Skopje: The PRO-ZA Balkan International Literature Festival opened in Skopje with Bulgarian participation, bringing regional authors and discussions on literature and cinema. Travel Watch (Europe): Eurocontrol reports record summer air traffic across Europe despite Middle East disruption, with North Macedonia among countries seeing higher flight volumes.

Fuel Relief: North Macedonia cuts fuel VAT from 18% to 10% from Sept. 15 to Sept. 28 to ease price pressure amid possible supply disruptions, with diesel savings estimated at over €250,000 a day. EU Citizenship Watch: The EU says proposed changes to North Macedonia’s investment-for-citizenship rules don’t fully end the “golden passport” practice, since special-interest cases can still qualify. Independence & Diplomacy: North Macedonia marks 35 years of independence, with international messages and regional military/EUFOR-related Independence Day activity noted. Culture in Skopje: The PRO-ZA Balkan International Literature Festival opens in Skopje with Bulgarian participation, featuring discussions on literature and cinema. Travel Trends: Eurocontrol reports record summer air traffic across Europe, with North Macedonia among countries seeing strong growth in flights. Sports (Scotland/North Macedonia link): New Scotland coach Sébastien Pocognoli is set to name his first Nations League squad including players like Robbie Ure and Luke Graham, with matches against Slovenia, Switzerland and North Macedonia.

Citizenship Reform: The EU says North Macedonia’s proposed tweaks to its investment-for-citizenship rules don’t fully end the “golden passport” practice, noting Skopje would scrap the €400,000 threshold and job-creation requirement but still allow citizenship for people deemed of “special interest.” Aviation & Travel: Eurocontrol reports Europe’s summer skies hit a record 35,959 flights per day (July–August), with North Macedonia among countries seeing strong growth despite Middle East war disruptions. Food Safety Checks: Croatia and Bulgaria blocked and/or destroyed peppers shipped from Albania and North Macedonia after pesticide tests found non-compliant levels. Independence & Diplomacy: North Macedonia marked 35 years since the Declaration of Independence, with international messages and renewed focus on ties abroad. Culture Abroad: North Macedonia’s pavilion is featured at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, where “Balkan Cultures” is the guest-of-honour theme, highlighting cultural cooperation with the Arab world.

Independence Day Cost: North Macedonia’s 35th anniversary celebrations (Sept. 8) reportedly cost 5.5 million euros, with nearly 4.9 million covered by the State Lottery, after questions were raised about who paid and how much the government spent. UAE–Balkans Cultural Ties: The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair opened under UAE President patronage, with “Balkan Culture” as Guest of Honour in collaboration with North Macedonia—an effort to boost cultural dialogue and showcase the country’s heritage to Arab audiences. Health Watch: Reports say West Nile virus cases in North Macedonia have led to eight deaths, with eight patients hospitalized in Skopje. Regional Air Travel: Eurocontrol data shows Europe’s summer skies were busier than ever, with higher flight traffic including North Macedonia during July–August. EUFOR & Independence: North Macedonia’s military contingent in EUFOR marked Independence Day, highlighting the country’s international role. Sports Spotlight: North Macedonia’s striker Bojan Miovski scored for Rangers after coming off the bench, while volleyball coverage notes North Macedonia’s position in the EuroVolley group standings.

Independence Day Costs: North Macedonia’s 35th anniversary celebrations (Sept. 8) reportedly cost 5.5 million euros, with nearly 4.9 million covered by the State Lottery and the rest by “socially responsible” companies, after questions were raised about the spending details. EUFOR & NATO Presence: A North Macedonian military contingent in EUFOR marked Independence Day, while NATO’s Joint Force Command Naples commander visited North Macedonia, underscoring ongoing regional security ties. Health Watch: Skopje hospitals reported eight West Nile virus cases, including deaths rising to eight nationwide. Regional Mobility Dispute: Foreign ministries warn of coordinated EU border blockades by carriers from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina on Sept. 14, with North Macedonia and Montenegro expected to join, affecting land crossings near Schengen. Sports Spotlight: In EuroVolley 2026, Ukraine beat hosts Bulgaria 3-1 and sits top of Group B, while North Macedonia remains winless after two matches. Culture & Books: Abu Dhabi’s 35th International Book Fair opened with “Balkan Culture” as guest of honour in collaboration with North Macedonia.

Volleyball Spotlight: Ukraine beat hosts Bulgaria 3-1 at the Men’s European Volleyball Championship in Sofia, leaving North Macedonia still without points after two matches. Independence Day Costs: North Macedonia’s 35th Independence Day celebrations reportedly cost 5.5 million euros, with nearly 4.9 million covered by the State Lottery, after questions over who paid and how much was spent. Health Watch: North Macedonia reported an 8th death linked to West Nile virus, with eight patients hospitalized in Skopje with neuroinvasive cases. EUFOR & NATO Presence: A North Macedonian military contingent in EUFOR marked Independence Day, while NATO’s Joint Force Command Naples commander visited North Macedonia. Regional Transport Tensions: Foreign carriers and heavy goods vehicles from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina plan border blockades on September 14, with North Macedonia and Montenegro also expected to join. Sports (EuroVolley): Pool B at Arena 8888 in Sofia includes Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Poland, Ukraine, Portugal and Israel as EuroVolley 2026 runs through September 27.

Aviation & Tourism: Eurocontrol says Europe hit record summer air traffic in July–August, averaging 35,959 flights a day and noting higher volumes including North Macedonia, despite Middle East war disruptions. Food Safety: Croatia and Bulgaria blocked over 35 tonnes of peppers linked to Albania and North Macedonia after pesticide tests failed rules, with some loads destroyed and others returned. Independence Day Costs: North Macedonia’s 35th Independence Day celebrations totaled €5.5m, with nearly €4.9m covered by the State Lottery, according to government disclosures. Health: Skopje hospitals reported 8th West Nile virus death and multiple cases, including eight patients hospitalized with neuroinvasive infection. NATO Cooperation: A NATO Joint Force Command Naples delegation visited North Macedonia, meeting senior officials to discuss regional security and training cooperation. EU Border Disruptions: Foreign ministries warn of coordinated EU border blockades by carriers on September 14, with North Macedonia among expected participants. Sports (EuroVolley): The 2026 CEV Men’s EuroVolley pools were set, with North Macedonia in Sofia’s Pool B.

Independence Day Costs: North Macedonia’s 35th anniversary celebrations (Sept. 8) reportedly cost €5.5 million, with nearly €4.9 million covered by the State Lottery and about €650,000 from “socially responsible” companies, after questions about who paid and why the government previously stayed vague. NATO Engagement: A NATO Joint Force Command Naples delegation, led by Admiral George Wikoff, met North Macedonia’s Deputy PM and Transport Minister Aleksandar Nikoloski, focusing on regional security, training opportunities, and interoperability. Sports—National Team Link: Swiss forward Noah Okafor says he will not play for Switzerland under coach Murat Yakin, citing a breakdown in trust—while Switzerland’s Nations League opener is set for Sept. 26 against North Macedonia. Regional Mobility Warning: Bulgaria’s foreign ministry warns of coordinated carrier blockades planned for Sept. 14 involving Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and also North Macedonia, urging travelers to check conditions and use alternative routes. Water & Security Debate: Analysis highlights growing pressure on Balkan rivers as a security issue, calling for an EU-backed “Balkan Water Pact” to prevent unilateral water diversions.

Independence Day Spending: North Macedonia’s Independence Day celebrations (Sept. 8) reportedly cost €5.5 million total, with nearly €4.9 million from the State Lottery and about €650,000 from “socially responsible” companies, after earlier questions about who paid and how much. NATO Visit: NATO’s Joint Force Command Naples commander Admiral George Wikoff met North Macedonia’s transport minister Aleksandar Nikoloski, focusing on regional security and training cooperation. Health Watch: Skopje hospitals reported eight cases of neuroinvasive West Nile virus, with deaths also rising in the country. Education Burden: Across the Balkans, schools are using lockers, digital textbooks and lighter routines to reduce heavy schoolbags—parents in North Macedonia say bags can still reach 5–7 kg for early grades. Energy & Jobs: Alcazar Energy Partners reached financial close on the Štip wind farm, a €180m project and the largest wind investment in North Macedonia, aiming to start construction on further phases. Transport Disruption: Foreign Ministry warns of planned EU border blockades by carriers from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina on Sept. 14, with North Macedonia and Montenegro carriers expected to join.

NATO Spotlight: The commander of NATO’s Joint Force Command Naples, Admiral George Wikoff, visited North Macedonia and met Deputy PM/Transport Minister Aleksandar Nikoloski, focusing on regional security, training opportunities, and interoperability with the North Macedonian Army. Sports—EuroVolley Build-Up: The 2026 CEV Men’s EuroVolley runs Sept. 9–26 across four host nations, with North Macedonia in Pool B in Sofia alongside Bulgaria, Poland, Ukraine, Portugal and Israel. Health—West Nile Update: Skopje hospitals reported eight patients with neuroinvasive West Nile virus, as deaths linked to the virus rise. Energy Investment: Alcazar Energy Partners reached financial close on the Štip wind farm (131.25 MW), a €180m project backed by major lenders including the EBRD and IFC, aiming for full operation by 2028. Culture & Film: “DJ Ahmet” leads nominations for the Adriatic Film and TV Awards, with North Macedonia among the eligible countries and filmmakers in the running.

Independence & Diplomacy: North Macedonia marked 35 years since independence on September 8, with major public events including a David Guetta stadium concert in Skopje, while foreign leaders sent congratulations and Skopje reiterated its EU path. EU Integration: The foreign minister said North Macedonia is ready to share its EU accession experience with Ukraine and warned against “intimidation” and unilateral concessions during talks. Energy & Investment: Alcazar Energy Partners reached financial close on the 131.25MW Štip wind farm, a €180m project backed by EBRD/IFC and Erste, aiming for full operation by 2028. Health: Reports say eight patients in Skopje were hospitalized with neuroinvasive West Nile virus, as deaths from the virus rise. Sports (North Macedonia in focus): Bulgaria opened the EuroVolley 2026 in Sofia with a 3-0 win over North Macedonia; in football, Scott McTominay’s successful heart ablation keeps him out of early Scotland Nations League matches including the trip to North Macedonia. Regional Cooperation: North Macedonia’s military contingent in EUFOR Althea celebrated Independence Day alongside international partners.

Health Watch: Skopje’s Infectious Diseases Clinic reports 8 hospitalized patients with neuroinvasive West Nile virus and a new weekend death, bringing fatalities to 8 as cases rise nationwide; authorities have launched intensified mosquito spraying and issued extra guidance for people over 60 and those on immunosuppressive therapy. Independence & Diplomacy: North Macedonia marked 35 years of independence on Sept. 8, with EUFOR Althea noting the country’s Independence Day and multiple leaders sending congratulations, including Armenia’s PM Nikol Pashinyan. EU Path & Ukraine: Foreign Minister Timcho Mucunski says Skopje is ready to share its EU accession experience with Ukraine and rejects accession “intimidation” or unilateral concessions. Sports (Local Connection): In Sofia, Bulgaria opened EuroVolley 2026 with a 3-0 win over North Macedonia, while the North Macedonian military contingent in EUFOR celebrated Independence Day. Business & Investment: Alcazar Energy Partners reached financial close on the €180m Štip Wind Farm, targeting full operation by 2028. Culture: The “Maškari Amende” festival returns Sept. 11-12 in Šuto Orizari, celebrating 30 years of the municipality with music and community events.