Skopje, 25.09.2025
The Minister of Economy and Labor, Besar Durmshi, met today with the United Nations Resident Coordinator in North Macedonia, Dr. Rita Columbia. At the meeting was discussed the deepening of cooperation between the Government of the Republic of North Macedonia and the United Nations, including line Ministries, through joint projects and activities aimed at promoting economic and social development.
The focus of the discussion was on strengthening the position of women in society, especially in the areas of economic development, entrepreneurship and leadership development. Special attention was also paid to gender equality policies and the prevention of discrimination, as a key prerequisite for inclusive and sustainable growth.
At the same time, initiatives for the development of policies to support youth were also discussed, by providing greater access to quality education, training in modern skills, employment opportunities, and active involvement in decision-making processes.
Minister Durmshi and Dr. Columbia also discussed the significance of the upcoming Second World Summit on Social Development, which will be held from 4 to 6 November in Doha, Qatar. The Summit will provide a global platform for renewing and reinforcing the key commitments of the Copenhagen Programme for Action – eradicating poverty, creating decent jobs, promoting social inclusion and equality.
The event is expected to bring together heads of state and government, as well as representatives from civil society, the private sector and academia. In addition, a Political Declaration will be adopted, committing member states to take concrete steps to advance social policies and implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
At the meeting was expressed a joint commitment to intensify the partnership between the Government and the United Nations, with the aim of supporting the economic independence of women through specific initiatives, creating new opportunities for young people, and improving the quality of life of all citizens.