During the working visit to Vilnius, Republic of Lithuania, the Minister of Digital Transformation, Stefan Andonovski, held a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Economy and Innovation of the Republic of Lithuania, Edvinas Grikshas.
At the meeting, it was emphasized that digitalization is one of the key drivers of economic expansion, increasing competitiveness and modernization of the public sector. In that context, the two ministers discussed the Lithuanian experience in connecting innovations, the startup ecosystem, GovTech solutions and public policies, as an important model for accelerating digital transformation.
"We view digital transformation as the foundation for economic growth, more competitive companies and more efficient institutions. The Lithuanian experience in connecting innovations, startups, GovTech solutions and public policies is particularly important for Macedonia, as it opens up space for concrete cooperation, knowledge exchange and pilot projects that can provide direct results for citizens and the economy," stressed Minister Andonovski.
A special emphasis was placed on the role of the Ministry of Economy and Innovation of the Republic of Lithuania in supporting the digital economy, innovation policy and the development of technology companies.
Minister Andonovski stressed that Macedonia sees digital transformation as a strategic process that should deliver more efficient public services, improved data management, greater interoperability among institutions and stronger support for innovation and new technologies.
The meeting also discussed the possibilities for concrete bilateral cooperation in the field of GovTech, development of AI sandbox models, as well as preparation of pilot projects that could be applicable in Macedonia. A technical exchange between the two ministries was also proposed, with a focus on innovation policy, digital economy and practical solutions for the digitalization of the public sector. The two countries are already cooperating in piloting solutions for citizens through the GovTech4All project and the Digital Europe program.
The meeting represents an important step in deepening cooperation between the two countries in the areas of digital transformation, innovation and economic development, as well as in identifying concrete opportunities for technical assistance, exchange of expertise and joint initiatives.
As part of the visit, Minister Andonovski also met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania, Kėstutis Budrys.
At the meeting, Minister Andonovski stressed the importance of the reform steps that Macedonia is taking in the digital agenda, public administration and the development of digital services being visible and recognized in regional and European processes, including in the context of the Growth Plan, the Reform Agenda and European integration.
