12 December 2025, Brussels

ReSPA and CEFTA formalised mutual cooperation through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, which lays the groundwork for long-term collaboration in strengthening administrative capacities, enhancing policy coordination, and supporting the implementation of regional integration commitments, particularly those related to the Common Regional Market and the Berlin Process.

By formalising this partnership, ReSPA and CEFTA will jointly work to:
✔ strengthen administrative capacities,
✔ promote knowledge exchange,
✔ support implementation of regional commitments,
✔ and contribute to a more integrated and competitive Western Balkans.

Reflecting on the importance of these three strategically aligned engagements, Director Handjiska-Trendafilova, Director of ReSPA, stated: “This formal partnership reinforces the strong cooperation already developed between the two institutions and opens the door to joint initiatives, expert exchanges, and capacity-building programmes. Together, with CEFTA and other partners, we reaffirm our commitment to evidence-based policymaking, deeper regional cooperation, and building the administrative capacities needed to support the Western Balkans on its path toward the European Administrative Space. We remain fully dedicated to advancing initiatives that benefit our public administrations, partners, and citizens across the region.”