Projekti IPA2

The “Krushevo and Elbasan – Journey in Nature and Adventure” project (KET-J) was presented in Krushevo, North Macedonia, as part of a promotional event held in connection with the official opening ceremony of the competition programme of the FAI World Junior Paragliding Championship – “Krushevo 2026”.

The event, held at the Meckin Kamen Paragliding Centre in Krushevo, brought together institutional and local representatives, project partners, international delegations, tourism sector representatives and pilots competing in the championship, turning Krushevo into a space for promoting adventure tourism and cross-border cooperation.
Elbasan, an active part of cross-border cooperation
The Albanian side of the project was represented by the Municipality of Elbasan, through the Deputy Mayor of Elbasan, Mr Irland Sina, as well as by the team of the “Tjeter Vizion” association — the two Albanian partners engaged in the implementation of the project.
The presence of the Municipality of Elbasan at this event confirmed its institutional commitment to developing the tourism potential of the territory, particularly through investments and initiatives aimed at promoting nature, active and adventure tourism.
At the same time, the “Tjeter Vizion” association, through its team, was an active part of the event and of the exchanges with partners and participants, contributing to strengthening the cross-border dimension of the project and to promoting Elbasan as a destination with potential for the development of sustainable tourism.
The joint participation of the Municipality of Elbasan and the “Tjeter Vizion” association underlined the importance of cooperation between local government and civil society organisations in creating new opportunities for the tourism and economic development of the Elbasan area.
From the project presentation to the “Krushevo 2026” experience
The event programme included the presentation of the KET-J project, the official opening ceremony of the competition programme of the FAI World Junior Paragliding Championship, the “Taste Krushevo” activity, meetings and exchanges among participants, as well as the pilots’ flights.
One of the key moments was the visit to the new “Crn Vrv” paragliding take-off site, an investment carried out with European Union funding through the KET-J project. The visit was accompanied by the first demonstration flight performed by professional pilots, concretely showcasing the potential that the new infrastructure creates for the further development of adventure tourism in Krushevo.
The event also offered an important opportunity for partners from North Macedonia and Albania to exchange experiences and promote a shared vision for the development of cross-border tourism destinations.
Krushevo and Elbasan – two destinations linked through nature and adventure
The “Krushevo and Elbasan – Journey in Nature and Adventure” project aims to use the natural and tourism potential of the two territories to foster sustainable tourism, local socio-economic development and cross-border cooperation.
Through investments in tourism infrastructure, improvement of the offer for nature and adventure activities, strengthening the capacities of local stakeholders, networking and joint promotion, the project aims to make the Krushevo–Elbasan cross-border area more attractive and competitive for domestic and international visitors.
The event of 24 August in Krushevo was a concrete example of this vision: two territories, partners from both sides of the border and a shared objective – to turn nature and adventure into an opportunity for sustainable development.

The 18th FAI European Paragliding Championship is taking place in Krushevo, with 130 pilots and around 200 participants from 38 countries.

Krushevo is once again living and breathing paragliding. From 8 to 19 August, the city is hosting the 18th FAI European Paragliding Championship, one of the most significant international events in the Paragliding Cross Country discipline.

The championship brings together 130 pilots from 38 countries. Together with their teams and support staff, around 200 participants directly involved in the competition are currently in Krushevo.

The main take-off takes place from Mechkin Kamen, while landings and the completion of competition tasks take place at designated landing sites across the wider area, depending on the specific task and flying conditions.

According to the organisers, the European Championship confirms Krushevo’s quality as an international paragliding destination, while also creating an opportunity for further development of infrastructure and the local tourism offer.

“The organisation of the European Championship in Krushevo confirms the quality we offer, while also providing an incentive for further development. By constructing new take-off sites, we are creating the conditions to host major international events in the future. Krushevo is not only a flying location. The entire local community, hospitality sector and atmosphere all contribute to welcoming our guests,” said Goran Dimishkovski, representative of the Organising Committee and President of the Paragliding World Cup.

Beyond its sporting significance, the championship provides an opportunity for further international promotion of Krushevo. Participants and their teams have the opportunity to experience the city’s nature, cultural heritage and tourism offer.

The development of paragliding infrastructure is also continuing through the IPA CBC project “Krushevo and Elbasan, Journey in Nature and Adventure”. As part of the project, two new take-off sites are being constructed at Crn Vrv, with the aim of improving conditions for paragliding and creating additional opportunities for the development of active and adventure tourism.

The 18th FAI European Paragliding Championship is organised by Paragliding Club Extrema and Delta Paraglider Club, on behalf of the Air Sports Federation of Macedonia. The event is supported by relevant national institutions, the Municipality of Krushevo and the Tourism Organisation of Krushevo.

Following the European Championship, Krushevo will host another major international sporting event. From 24 August, the city will host the “Krushevo 2026” Junior World Paragliding Championship.

With two major international events taking place in August, Krushevo is strengthening its position as a significant European destination for paragliding and active tourism.

The Municipality of Krushevo, the Municipality of Elbasan, the Center for Sustainable Development ALKA and the organisation Tjeter Vision have officially signed the Partnership Agreement for the implementation of the “Krushevo and Elbasan, Journey in Nature and Adventure” project.

The project is funded by the European Union through the IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania. Its goal is to promote the development of sustainable and adventure tourism, improve tourism infrastructure and strengthen cross-border cooperation between the two regions.

The project will deliver significant infrastructure investments, including:

* Construction of a safe and accessible paragliding take-off site in Krushevo.

* Improvement of the Gumenje Sports and Recreation Centre, including new walking trails, LED lighting, renovation of sports fields and a dedicated space for events and festivals.

* Construction of an adventure park in Funar, Elbasan, including a parking area and marked trails leading to the Dopaj canyons.

The project also includes activities to strengthen local capacities through training for tourism operators and local entrepreneurs on sustainable tourism, the circular economy and practices aimed at minimising waste generation.

At the same time, a cross-border network of tourism stakeholders will be established to support cooperation, exchange experiences and develop new tourism products.

Through regional and international promotional activities, the project will contribute to increasing the visibility of Krushevo and Elbasan as attractive destinations for adventure and active tourism.

The signing of the Partnership Agreement marks the start of a joint initiative that will contribute to sustainable economic development, an improved tourism offer and stronger links between local communities in North Macedonia and Albania.

As part of the “Krushevo and Elbasan, Journey in Nature and Adventure” project (KET-J), a new paragliding take-off site is being developed at the Crn Vrv location in the Municipality of Krushevo.

The new investment aims to improve conditions for safe and high-quality paragliding and strengthen Krushevo’s potential as one of Europe’s leading destinations for the sport.

The new take-off site will provide:

* Improved safety conditions for pilots.

* Better conditions for hosting international competitions and sporting events.

* An improved experience for paragliders and visitors.

* Support for sustainable tourism development and the local economy.

With its natural characteristics, favourable flying conditions and long-standing paragliding tradition, Krushevo is already recognised as an attractive destination for adventure tourism enthusiasts. The new take-off site at Crn Vrv will further contribute to expanding the tourism offer and increasing the international visibility of the region.

The “Krushevo and Elbasan, Journey in Nature and Adventure” project (KET-J) is implemented with financial support from the European Union through the IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania. The project is implemented by the Municipality of Krushevo, Municipality of Elbasan, Center for Sustainable Development ALKA and Tjeter Vizion Organisation.

Funar Fest 2026 marked the beginning of the second phase of the “Krushevo and Elbasan, Journey in Nature and Adventure” project (KET-J), implemented under the IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania.

The event in Funar, Elbasan, brought together visitors from Elbasan, other cities across Albania and international tourists. The programme featured cultural activities, local product presentations, live music performances, kayaking, camping and outdoor activities. Through the event, Funar was promoted as an attractive destination for nature and adventure tourism.

The second phase of the project includes the construction of the Funar Adventure Park, development of new parking areas, and creation of 13 kilometres of hiking and cycling trails. These investments will contribute to improved tourism infrastructure, increased regional attractiveness and sustainable tourism development.

Representatives of local authorities and partner organisations attended the event. The Mayors of the Municipalities of Elbasan and Krushevo highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation and European Union support in jointly developing tourism potential, creating new economic opportunities and connecting communities on both sides of the border.

Through the development of tourism infrastructure, strengthening of local capacities and promotion of natural resources, the project aims to position Krushevo and Elbasan as recognised destinations for active, nature-based and adventure tourism.

Thirty-six representatives of local administrations from the Pelagonia Region in North Macedonia and the Elbasan Region in Albania participated in a two-day good governance training organised within the framework of the “Krushevo and Elbasan, Journey in Nature and Adventure” project, funded by the European Union through the IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania.

The training brought together municipal officials, experts and local stakeholders to strengthen knowledge and skills related to transparent, accountable and inclusive local governance. Participants exchanged experiences and explored practical approaches to improving public services and increasing citizen participation.

During the training, participants discussed key principles of good governance, transparency, accountability, inclusive participation and civic engagement. Through presentations, moderated discussions, case studies and group exercises, they analysed common governance challenges faced by municipalities and identified practical solutions to address them.

Particular attention was given to:

* Strengthening transparency and accountability in local services.

* Promoting citizen participation in decision-making processes.

* Identifying barriers to inclusion and community participation.

* Developing practical activities for consultation with local communities.

* Exchanging good practices between municipalities from the two countries.

The interactive format of the training encouraged active dialogue and cooperation among participants, creating opportunities for mutual learning and strengthening cross-border partnerships.

Organised by the Ministry of Local Self-Government and the Delegation of the European Union to North Macedonia, a promotional event was held in Ohrid on 1 December 2025 to mark the start of the implementation of two new projects funded through the IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania.

As part of the event, the North Macedonia and Albania Cross-Border Cooperation Programme was presented, while co-financing agreements were signed between the Ministry of Local Self-Government and the lead beneficiaries of the two newly approved projects.

The event featured addresses by the Ambassador of the European Union to North Macedonia, Michalis Rokas, the Minister of Local Self-Government, Zlatko Perinski, the Director of the Directorate for Convergence and Cohesion with the European Union of the Republic of Albania, Eridana Çano, the Mayor of the Municipality of Ohrid, Kiril Pecakov, and the Mayor of the Municipality of Krushevo, Niko Choneski.

Participants were informed about the importance of cross-border cooperation in promoting sustainable regional development, environmental protection, improved safety for local communities and sustainable tourism development. The two new projects, with a combined value of more than EUR 1.6 million, will contribute to strengthening partnerships and supporting the development of the cross-border region.

The IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania is one of five cross-border cooperation programmes in which North Macedonia participates with neighbouring countries. With financial support of approximately EUR 12 million, the programme supports projects contributing to economic growth, environmental protection, social inclusion and stronger cooperation between local communities in the two countries.

One of the two new projects is “Krushevo and Elbasan, Journey in Nature and Adventure” (KET-J), which will contribute to the development of sustainable and adventure tourism and strengthen cross-border cooperation between Krushevo and Elbasan.

The Municipality of Krushevo and the Municipality of Elbasan are entering a new phase of cooperation through the “Journey in Nature and Adventure” project, funded by the European Union through the IPA Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania.

The project aims to develop sustainable tourism, improve tourism infrastructure and strengthen local economies in the cross-border region through joint activities and investments in tourism and adventure tourism facilities.

Basic Project Information:

* Implementation period: 1 November 2025 to 30 June 2028

* Total budget: EUR 833,204

* Partnership: Municipality of Krushevo, Municipality of Elbasan, Center for Sustainable Development ALKA and Tjeter Vizion

What does the project include?

The project will implement a range of infrastructure and development activities aimed at improving the tourism offer and creating new opportunities for local communities.

Key Results:

* Construction of a new paragliding take-off site in Krushevo.

* Reconstruction and improvement of the Gumenje Sports and Recreation Centre, including new trails, lighting, sports facilities and event space.

* Construction of an adventure park in Funar, Elbasan, including a parking area and marked trails leading to the Dopaj canyons.

* Training for entrepreneurs on sustainable tourism and the circular economy.

* Establishment of a cross-border network for coordinated tourism development and promotion.

* Joint promotional activities to increase the regional and international visibility of the destinations.

A New Step for Adventure Tourism

Through this project, the region is taking an important step towards developing adventure tourism, attracting new visitors and creating new economic opportunities for local communities and businesses on both sides of the border.

The project is funded by the European Union through the IPA Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania.

Attached are project summaries in Macedonian, Albanian and English.

IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania Promoted, Co-Financing Agreements for Two New Projects Signed

Organised by the Ministry of Local Self-Government and the Delegation of the European Union to North Macedonia, a promotional event was held in Ohrid on 1 December 2025 to mark the start of the implementation of two new projects funded through the IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania.

As part of the event, the North Macedonia and Albania Cross-Border Cooperation Programme was presented, while co-financing agreements were signed between the Ministry of Local Self-Government and the lead beneficiaries of the two newly approved projects.

The event featured addresses by the Ambassador of the European Union to North Macedonia, Michalis Rokas, the Minister of Local Self-Government, Zlatko Perinski, the Director of the Directorate for Convergence and Cohesion with the European Union of the Republic of Albania, Eridana Çano, the Mayor of the Municipality of Ohrid, Kiril Pecakov, and the Mayor of the Municipality of Krushevo, Niko Choneski.

Participants were informed about the importance of cross-border cooperation in promoting sustainable regional development, environmental protection, improved safety for local communities and sustainable tourism development. The two new projects, with a combined value of more than EUR 1.6 million, will contribute to strengthening partnerships and supporting the development of the cross-border region.

The IPA III Cross-Border Cooperation Programme North Macedonia and Albania is one of five cross-border cooperation programmes in which North Macedonia participates with neighbouring countries. With financial support of approximately EUR 12 million, the programme supports projects contributing to economic growth, environmental protection, social inclusion and stronger cooperation between local communities in the two countries.

One of the two new projects is “Krushevo and Elbasan, Journey in Nature and Adventure” (KET-J), which will contribute to the development of sustainable and adventure tourism and strengthen cross-border cooperation between Krushevo and Elbasan.