Minister for Digital Transformation, Stefan Andonovski, addressed the panel dedicated to artificial intelligence and innovation during the ministerial meeting for Western Balkan countries, organised by the European Commission and Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva.
In his address, Minister Andonovski stated that Macedonia is transforming its approach to innovation from a fragmented system to an integrated, effective and European-aligned model. He presented INOVA, the national mechanism for innovation and entrepreneurship, which unites three ministries – for digital transformation, economy and education – into one unified structure that enables real results on the ground.
“Innovation is no longer just a technological issue – it is an economic, social and strategic issue. With INOVA, we ensure coherence, integration and inclusiveness at all levels,” said Andonovski.
As part of the new infrastructure, INNOFEIT EDIH – the first European Digital Innovation Hub in Macedonia – which, through the Digital Europe Programme, provides support for small and medium-sized enterprises in the form of access to AI capacities, digital twins, mentoring and training.
Special emphasis was placed on the new National AI Factory – VEZILKA, funded through the Horizon Europe and EuroHPC programmes, which connects Macedonia to the European AI network, including access to supercomputers, shared data spaces and training for key sectors.
“As President von der Leyen said – ‘the future of AI needs to be created in Europe’. From Skopje, I would add – ‘sometimes that future needs to be created right here, at home – but with Europe as our partner and with European values ​​as our guide’,” concluded Andonovski.
The event gathered ministers and senior representatives from the Western Balkans and the EU countries, who discussed regional and European cooperation in the field of digital transformation, innovation and the application of artificial intelligence.
