AII Foreign Ministers’ Informal Working Breakfast on the margins of the 80th UN General Assembly - 22 September, New York
On September 22nd, on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the first meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative (AII) took place - an event that represents a historic moment and a confirmation of the shared commitment to regional cooperation, European integration and constructive multilateralism.
The meeting was organized by the Republic of North Macedonia, which assumed the one-year role of chairman of the AII for the period 2025–2026, and hosted by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Timcho Mucunski.
In his address, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Timcho Mucunski, highlighted the symbolism of this year, which marks five years since joining the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR), seven years of membership in AII and 25 years since the signing of the Ancona Declaration – the foundation of this regional initiative.
Under the motto "Strengthening regional unity, advancing the European future", the Chairmanship of North Macedonia affirms its commitment to deepening integration and cooperation between member states and their relationship with the European Union. Mucunski stressed the need for a credible EU enlargement process, noting that the Western Balkans must remain a strategic part of the European future. In that context, the priorities of the Chairmanship were presented: strengthening EU integration and regional trust, digital transformation, better infrastructure connectivity, cultural cooperation and support for youth. In a time of global uncertainty, a clear message was sent: "Unity is our strength, and European integration - a common goal."