AGP Executive Report

Coalition of the Willing in Paris: Leaders are set to meet in Paris on July 13 to coordinate support for Ukraine, with a focus on strengthening air defence and plans tied to Patriot missile licensed production, plus discussion of an anti-ballistic system; North Macedonia joins: Moldova and North Macedonia are expected to take part for the first time, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reportedly attending; Aviation incident with North Macedonia link: A Ryanair flight from Thessaloniki to Germany made an emergency return after a passenger window dislodged in-flight, with reports saying engine debris struck the window while the plane was over North Macedonia; a 61-year-old Serbian passenger was partially pulled out but was pulled back by fellow travellers and treated in hospital; Visa rules update: Germany published its 2026 list of 62 countries eligible for visa-free short stays, including North Macedonia, for up to 90 days within any 180-day period; Culture across the region: The Golesh traditional convention brought together people from Serbia, Bulgaria and North Macedonia near the three-country border, while Cinehill Film Festival named Montenegro its partner country for July 21–26 in Croatia.

Aviation Safety in Focus: A Ryanair Boeing 737 flight from Thessaloniki to Memmingen made an emergency return after a passenger window dislodged mid-flight, with reports pointing to a right engine issue and cabin decompression over North Macedonia; a 61-year-old Serbian man was partially pulled out and treated in Thessaloniki, while his wife held his legs for about five minutes and fellow passengers helped pull him back inside. Regional Diplomacy: North Macedonia is expected to join Ukraine’s “Coalition of the Willing” meeting in Paris on July 13, as France and partners plan new defense initiatives and security guarantees. EU Travel Rules: Germany published its 2026 visa-free list of 62 countries for up to 90 days, including several Western Balkan states such as North Macedonia. Local Social Impact: The EU-backed “Arakhel” project is set to expand support for Romani women victims of domestic and gender-based violence, with Pirot named as the pilot city and partners across the region including North Macedonia. Culture & Society: A UNFPA study highlights that young people across Eastern Europe and Central Asia want children but face conditions that delay parenthood.

Aviation Incident: A Ryanair Boeing 737 flying from Thessaloniki to Memmingen was forced to return shortly after takeoff after a passenger window dislodged in-flight, causing cabin decompression and leaving a 61-year-old Serbian man partially sucked through the opening; fellow passengers and his wife helped pull him back in, and he received medical assistance in Thessaloniki for neck/shoulder injuries and friction burns, with officials saying the cause is still under investigation and that North Macedonia is leading the probe. Regional Human Rights: A Council of Europe report highlights Azerbaijan’s prison overcrowding and limited use of probation alternatives, underscoring wider concerns about sentencing and parole systems across the region. Travel & Culture: A travel roundup argues the Balkans are best experienced by planning around seasons, with spring singled out for quieter, more local-feeling visits—plus coverage of China’s latest visa-free list that includes North Macedonia. Diplomacy: Reports say North Macedonia is expected to join the “Coalition of the Willing” meeting in Paris on July 13, as allies coordinate support for Ukraine.

Aviation Emergency Over North Macedonia: A Ryanair Boeing 737 flying from Thessaloniki to Germany made an emergency return after a passenger window dislodged mid-flight, with reports that engine debris struck the cabin. A 61-year-old Serbian man was partially pulled toward the opening but was saved by his seatbelt and fellow passengers; his wife held his legs as the plane descended. He received medical care for neck/shoulder injuries and friction burns, and the aircraft landed safely in Greece while authorities said the investigation is being led by North Macedonia. Regional Energy Talks: Slovakia and Hungary joined technical discussions in Athens on the Vertical Corridor gas project, expanding the route from Greece toward Southeast and Central Europe as the EU pushes to cut Russian gas imports by end-2027. Diplomacy Watch: North Macedonia is expected to join Moldova in the “Coalition of the Willing” meeting in Paris on July 13, where Zelensky and other leaders plan new defense steps and pressure on Russia. Culture & Community: The Galicnik Wedding Festival (July 10–12) returns with real newlyweds and traditional customs in the mountain village of Galicnik.

Ryanair Emergency Over North Macedonia: A Ryanair Boeing 737 flight from Thessaloniki to Germany returned to Greece after a passenger window dislodged mid-air, triggering cabin decompression and panic. Witnesses say a 61-year-old Serbian man was pulled out up to his shoulders; his wife held his legs for about five minutes until other passengers dragged him back in. Greek authorities link the incident to a right engine issue, with oxygen masks deployed and several passengers checked in hospital. EU Accession Talks: France’s ambassador in Skopje says the 2022 EU “compromise” is a text signed between North Macedonia and the EU and should not be renegotiated, stressing it as a key remaining obligation. EU Enlargement Momentum: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos says progress is now “in writing” and that once constitutional amendments on Bulgarians are adopted, the next intergovernmental conference can be held. Regional Cooperation: Italy’s deputy foreign minister visited Skopje and Pristina, reaffirming support for North Macedonia’s European path and backing EU-facilitated normalization between Serbia and Kosovo. Culture & Community: The Galicnik Wedding Festival runs July 10–12 in North Macedonia, with real newlyweds and traditional customs. Cross-Border Ties: A traditional convention in Golesh (July 12) brings together people from Serbia, Bulgaria and North Macedonia, with folklore and local officials taking part.

EU Accession Push: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos urged North Macedonia to adopt agreed constitutional amendments to unlock the next phase of talks, saying progress is now “in writing” but depends on the constitutional step. Border Tensions: Three North Macedonian officials were reportedly stopped at Albania’s Qafë Thanë border crossing and later told they were banned, with suspicions linked to protests in Tirana. NATO & Defence Burden-Sharing: Coverage from the Ankara summit highlights pressure on allies to meet higher defence spending targets, with North Macedonia listed among members at the 2% level; leaders also discussed deterrence, industrial capacity and support for Ukraine. Digital Rights in the Region: BIRN warns digital repression is worsening across the Western Balkans, documenting widespread online fraud, harmful behaviour and attacks on civic actors. Public Health Watch: WHO warns of Europe’s “deadliest weeks” as extreme heat returns, with North Macedonia mentioned among countries needing stronger heat-response plans. Local Economy & Connectivity: AEK reports North Macedonia’s mobile market shrank to 1.97 million active lines in Q1 2026. Culture: Skopje hosted a regional orchestral collaboration uniting performers from Skopje, Sofia and Thessaloniki.

EU Accession Pressure: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos urged North Macedonia to adopt constitutional amendments to keep talks moving, saying the “opportunity” is once in a generation and progress depends on trust built through fulfilled obligations. French Proposal Clarified: In Skopje, French Ambassador Christophe Le Rigoleur said the 2022 “French proposal” is an EU-North Macedonia text, not a bilateral Bulgaria deal, and should not be renegotiated. NATO Burden-Sharing: Coverage from the Ankara summit highlights pressure on allies to meet defense spending targets, with North Macedonia among members at 2% and ongoing debate over Europe’s responsibility. Diplomatic Visits: Italy’s Deputy Foreign Minister Edmondo Cirielli met officials in Skopje and Pristina, reaffirming support for EU integration and regional stability. Border Incident: TV21 reports three North Macedonian officials were denied entry into Albania at Qafë Thanë, with claims linked to suspected involvement in Tirana protests. Digital Rights Watch: BIRN warns digital repression is worsening across the Western Balkans and Turkey, documenting widespread online rights violations. Public Health Alert: WHO warns Europe faces “deadliest weeks” of extreme heat; mosquito-borne diseases are also rising in holiday hotspots, with North Macedonia mentioned among affected countries. Culture & Heritage: A joint orchestral performance in Skopje united artists from Skopje, Sofia and Thessaloniki, while efforts to protect North Macedonia’s rare pink ruby gained momentum.

EU Accession Push: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos told North Macedonia to move fast on constitutional amendments, saying progress is now “in writing” and the next intergovernmental conference can follow once the Bulgarian inclusion changes are adopted. Border Tensions: Three North Macedonian officials were reportedly denied entry into Albania at Qafë Thanë, with claims they were linked to organizing protests in Tirana dubbed the “Flamingo Revolution.” NATO & Defence Partnerships: Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski’s government is in the spotlight as NATO’s Ankara Summit underlines higher defence spending and industrial capacity, while PM Carney announced new defence partnerships and investments. Public Health & Heat: WHO warns Europe faces “deadliest weeks” as a new heatwave builds, with Portugal and southern Spain forecast up to 43°C, raising pressure on heat-health plans and healthcare readiness. Local Economy & Connectivity: North Macedonia’s mobile market shrank slightly in Q1 2026 to 1.97 million active lines, with mobile internet users also reported by the regulator AEK. Culture & Society: Skopje, Sofia and Thessaloniki united again through joint performances, while a new Prix Cineplexx award at the Sarajevo Film Festival aims to boost regional films’ cinema runs. Heritage Spotlight: North Macedonia’s rare pink ruby is seeking protected status as local jewellers push for global recognition.

EU Accession Pressure: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos urged North Macedonia to change its constitution to speed up EU membership, saying agreed constitutional amendments are the “necessary next step” and pointing to Montenegro as a frontrunner. Youth & Jobs: Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski’s government says it will turn young people into skilled human resources, including plans for employment exchange centres to boost local job matching and reopen overseas labour markets. NATO & Defence Partnerships: Prime Minister Mark Carney wrapped up the 2026 NATO Summit in Ankara, announcing new defence partnerships and investments as allies push for higher defence spending. Public Health: WHO warns Europe faces more deadly heat, with Portugal and southern Spain forecast up to 43C and gaps in national heat-health plans leaving vulnerable groups exposed. Digital Economy: North Macedonia’s mobile market shrank to 1.97 million active lines in Q1 2026, with mobile internet users at 1.64 million. Online Hate Speech Probe: Interior and security services are investigating around 20 social media profiles/websites suspected of inciting tensions with Bulgaria. Culture: The 5th International Day of the Roma Song returns on Aug. 8, highlighting Roma musical heritage across multiple European venues.

EU Accession Push: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos is set to visit Skopje to press North Macedonia on implementing its Reform Agenda and the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, meeting PM Hristian Mickoski and other top officials. Security & Hate Speech Online: North Macedonia’s Interior Ministry and UBK are investigating around 20 Facebook and Instagram pages suspected of spreading hate speech and inciting tensions with Bulgaria, including possible financing links. Telecom Snapshot: AEK reports North Macedonia’s mobile market dipped to 1.97 million active lines in Q1 2026, with mobile internet users at 1.64 million. Culture & Film: The Sarajevo Film Festival unveiled the Prix Cineplexx, a new audience-chosen award (worth €20,000) supporting regional films’ theatrical release. Business/Regional Links: Qatar and North Macedonia held political talks in Doha and signed three agreements, including visa-free entry for holders of diplomatic, special and official passports. Tech/Workplace Safety: HSEQ consultancy Technique Works launched an office in Albania to serve clients across the Western Balkans, including North Macedonia.

EU Accession Push: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos is set to visit Skopje tomorrow to press North Macedonia on reform delivery under the Growth Plan, stressing that progress depends on trust built through fulfilled obligations. Domestic Security: North Macedonia’s Interior Ministry and UBK are investigating around 20 Facebook and Instagram pages and websites over alleged hate speech and incitement tied to tensions with Bulgaria, including how some activity was financed. EU Enlargement Reality Check: Serbia’s Aleksandar Vucic said candidate countries should not expect a quick EU expansion, arguing major enlargement is unlikely soon. Diplomatic Ties: Qatar and North Macedonia held political talks in Doha and signed three agreements covering foreign-ministry consultations, diplomatic training, and visa-free entry for certain passport holders. Business & Jobs: LEORON Institute appointed George Gruevski as Chief Operating Officer, highlighting its operational presence in North Macedonia. Culture: Sarajevo Film Festival launched the Prix Cineplexx, chosen by audiences, with a first-time prize at its 32nd edition.

Heat Emergency: WHO warns Europe could face more deadly weeks of extreme heat after France saw a sharp rise in deaths following record-breaking heatwaves, with Portugal and southern Spain forecast to hit around 43C. Skopje Business Leadership: LEORON Institute, with an operational presence in North Macedonia, appoints George Gruevski as COO, highlighting its regional training and EdTech expansion. Qatar–North Macedonia Diplomacy: Qatar and North Macedonia held political talks in Doha and signed three agreements, including regular foreign-ministry consultations, diplomatic training, and visa-free entry for diplomatic and official passport holders. Energy Security: Greece and North Macedonia reaffirm the gas interconnector schedule, targeting completion in 2027 to diversify supplies and strengthen regional energy security. EU & Borders: A major airport executive urges the EU to pause its Entry/Exit System over “design flaw” delays, a concern for travelers and logistics across Europe. Media & Online Life: A regional study supported by UNESCO examines how social media platforms shape access to news across South-East Europe, including North Macedonia. EU Accession Politics: Commentary argues North Macedonia’s foreign policy under Mickoski has driven isolation and escalations, while also tying EU progress to disputes with Bulgaria. Tech & Security: Researchers report SharkLoader malware targeting multiple countries, with confirmed victims including North Macedonia.

EU Enlargement & History Row: The European Parliament is set to debate and vote on Ukraine’s EU report on 7–8 July, with critics warning Poland’s push to link Volhynia and UPA commemoration to Ukraine’s accession risks turning enlargement into a historical dispute. Protests & Political Control: A separate commentary argues violence at boulevard protests was staged, pointing to masked men, a pre-brought coffin, and claims that Sali Berisha has effectively taken control—while organisers blame police provocation. Diplomacy: Qatar and North Macedonia held political talks in Doha and signed three agreements covering foreign-ministry consultations, diplomatic training, and visa-free entry for holders of diplomatic/special/official passports. Energy Infrastructure: Greece and North Macedonia reaffirmed the gas interconnector schedule, saying the project is expected to be completed in 2027. EU Funds & Reforms: Western Balkan governments face potential losses of EU Growth Plan money if reform targets aren’t met by 15 July, with Kosovo singled out for possible cuts. Local Politics: Parliament’s debate on a new election law was suspended after thousands of amendments, with opposition accusing the government of creating room for fraud via diaspora e-voting rules. Health System: A new assessment highlights ongoing structural problems in North Macedonia’s healthcare—underfunding, staffing shortages, uneven regional access, and patient out-of-pocket costs.

Qatar–North Macedonia Diplomacy: In Doha, foreign ministers Timcho Mucunski and Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi held political talks and signed three pacts on consultations, diplomatic training, and visa-free entry for holders of diplomatic, special, and official passports. Energy Security: Skopje and Athens reaffirmed the Greece–North Macedonia natural gas interconnector schedule, with completion expected in 2027, aimed at diversifying supplies and strengthening regional energy security. EU Border Friction: A major airport chief urged the EU to pause the entry/exit system, saying border processing has doubled and is causing chaotic delays. Local Politics: Parliament suspended debate on a new election law after thousands of amendments were filed, with the opposition challenging diaspora e-voting and party financing rules. EU Funding Pressure: Western Balkan governments face possible losses under the EU Growth Plan if reform targets aren’t met, with North Macedonia among the frontrunners under scrutiny. Culture & Society: A deregistered Bitola cultural centre urged PM Mickoski to “tell the truth” about an EP report, calling for stronger minority rights and historical commission work. Tech & Safety: Researchers reported a new malware loader, SharkLoader, linked to attacks reaching North Macedonia among other countries.

Diplomacy: Qatar and North Macedonia held political talks in Doha and signed three agreements covering political consultations, diplomatic training, and visa-free entry for holders of diplomatic/special/official passports. Energy Security: Greece and North Macedonia confirmed the Greece–North Macedonia natural gas interconnector remains on schedule, with completion expected in 2027. EU & Elections: Parliament debate on a new election law was suspended after thousands of amendments, with opposition challenging diaspora e-voting and party financing rules. EU Funding: Western Balkan governments face possible loss of EU Growth Plan money if reform targets aren’t met, with North Macedonia among the countries tied to the 2024–2027 Reform and Growth Facility. Digital Media & Society: A regional study on social media platform governance and online media regulation highlights how platforms now shape access to news across North Macedonia and the wider Balkans. Public Life & Culture: UNICEF says children in North Macedonia are among the fastest adopters of AI, raising concerns as safeguards lag behind uptake. Travel & Tourism: North Macedonia’s visitor numbers rose about 7% in 2025, helped by new direct flights, as the country tries to stand out on Europe’s travel map. Cybersecurity: A malware campaign using fake Cisco AnyConnect and Google Update installers has reportedly reached victims including North Macedonia.

Foreign Policy & Diplomacy: Qatar and North Macedonia held political talks in Doha and signed three agreements, including political consultations, diplomatic training, and visa-free entry for holders of diplomatic/special/official passports. Energy Security: Greece and North Macedonia reaffirmed the Greece–North Macedonia gas interconnector schedule, targeting completion in 2027, to diversify supplies and strengthen regional energy security. EU & Politics: North Macedonia’s election law debate stalled in parliament over thousands of amendments, with opposition challenging diaspora e-voting and party financing rules. EU Funding Pressure: Western Balkan governments face possible losses of Reform and Growth Facility money if reform targets aren’t met, with North Macedonia among frontrunners likely to receive more. Governance & Society: A study on social media platform rules and online media regulation highlights how platforms shape news access across South-East Europe, including North Macedonia. Public Life & Culture: Vietnam Day in Skopje brought cultural performances and tourism promotion as part of the Skopje Summer Festival. Security: Researchers flagged SharkLoader malware targeting networks, with confirmed victims including North Macedonia.