Actual Achievements (EN): The initial phase of the project implementation has been marked by achievements that establish a robust foundation for future success. Across the involved municipalities and partner organizations, key activities have been carried out to ensure smooth progress and effective cross-border cooperation.
The LP: The initial activities and project setting up were related to the appointment of the project staff, namely submitting in Jems: declarations that the necessary and qualified project staff will be kept throughout the whole implementation period, a copy of administrative order with description of tasks, as well as statement by the Mayor of the Municipality regarding staff cost reimbursement.
Moreover the LP has prepared Project procurement plan and submitted it to the JS.
Request for payment №1 was submitted on the 9-th of May 2025,and as a Lead partner the Municipality of Blagoevgrad has received the requested amount of EUR 93 333,64 on the 2-nd of June 2025, and on the 5-th of June 2025 the advance payment was distributed among the partners.
On the 20-th of May 2025 an Initial on-line monitoring meeting was conducted and the project manager, the technical assistant and the jurist of the project team from the Blagoevgrad municipality took part.
A Communication strategy of the project was prepared and on the 29-th of May 2025 sent to the JS.
On the 2-nd of June 2025 the necessary documentation for the main procurement procedure "Reconstruction and expansion of Observatory and Eco-educational alley" was officially published, in accordance with national legislation and project requirements.
PP2:During the current phase of project implementation, the Municipality of Delcevo has successfully completed key initial activities: A local project team has been established, consisting of administrative and technical staff responsible for the coordination, monitoring, and timely implementation of all planned actions.
Two public procurement procedures, namely "Works on regulation of the bed of Bregalnica river" and " Works on construction of a skate park in Delchevo" have been prepared and officially launched, in full compliance with national regulations and project rules. In addition, an evaluation committee has been formed to review and assess submitted bids, ensuring transparency, competitiveness, and the selection of qualified contractors.
PP3:A crucial step in fostering collaboration was the organization of an online meeting with representatives from the responsible Secretariat. This meeting helped clarify expectations, streamline communication channels, and align the project objectives with relevant institutional frameworks. In addition, continuous and effective communication has been established with other partners from Bulgaria and North Macedonia. This close cooperation strengthens cross-border collaboration and promotes knowledge sharing, which is vital for the project’s success.
Preparations for two procurement procedures, namely "Development of marketing strategy for popularization of the tourist product, creation of logo and slogan of the region and communication plan" and "Events (2 days training in Delchevo, 2 days Instagram tour, Full board accommodation)" have also been completed. All necessary documents for RACs two public procurement processes were carefully drafted to ensure transparency and compliance with legal requirements. Public announcements have been made, and invitations to participate in the procurement have been sent out to selected companies, opening the way for the acquisition of essential services and resources.
These early achievements demonstrate the project’s steady progress and the added value of strong international cooperation. By combining efforts across borders and maintaining open communication, the project is well-positioned to deliver impactful results.
PP4:During the first reporting period, the foundations of future fruitful cooperation in the cross-border
partnership were laid. The following actions related to the technical implementation were taken:
-the necessary documents regarding the appointment of the project staff were uploaded in JEMS;
-Project Procurement Plan #1 was made, submitted and approved by the JS and uploaded in JEMS;
-at the beginning of June 2025 advance payment of EUR 1612 was received;
-on the 20-th of May 2025 we took part of the On-line initial meeting and discussed with the JS
experts the pre-set issues.
Overall the project has established a strong foundation through effective strategic planning and
stakeholder involvement.
In the course of the second reporting period the project partnership took successful actions for the further implementation of the planned project activities.
The LP:During the trimester, the following actions were carried out:
-Participation of the project team on the10-th of July in Training for beneficiaries “Implementation of the projects” under Priority 3 "Integrated Development of the Cross-Border Region" of the Interreg VIA IPA Bulgaria - North Macedonia Programme.
-Contract for Author's control concluded on the 3-rd of July 2025.
-A procedure for Construction supervision was conducted according to Art. 14, para. 1, point 5 of PPA and a contract concluded on the 18-th of August 2025.
-A procedure for "Information and publicity measures. Press conferences for the opening and closing of the project. Information boards with information about the project. Preparation of a video to promote the project" was conducted according to Art. 14, para. 1, point 5 of PPA and a contract concluded on the 27-th of August 2025.
Request for payment №2 was submitted on the 27-th of August 2025 ,as the LP has received the requested amount of EUR 93 333,63 on 19-th of September 2025 and on the 23-rd of September 2025 the advance payment was distributed among the partners.
At the beginning and the end of September two press conferences were held on both sides of the border line. Representatives of the LP took part in the first (on the 5-th of September 2025) as guests and in the second (on the 25-th of September 2025) as organizers.
PP2:Within the first phase, two public procurement procedures were prepared, launched, and finalized in
full compliance with national regulations and project rules. Following the completion of the evaluation process, on the 26-th of August 2025 two contracts have been signed with the selected companies for "Works on REGULATION OF THE BED OF THE BREGALNICA RIVER" and "Works on CONSTRUCTION OF A SCATE PARK IN DELCHEVO".
Entering the second phase, the project moves from planning to tangible implementation, with contractors commencing field works according to the agreed timelines and technical specifications.
The added value of the cooperation remains evident through the strengthened institutional capacity of the Municipality of Delcevo, the adoption of best practices shared among project partners, and the promotion of cross-border and inter-municipal collaboration.
PP3:During this reporting period, the Regional Advocacy Center has made significant progress in the overall implementation of the project. One of the key achievements was the successful completion of two public procurement procedures: "Development of Marketing Strategy, creation of logo and slogan" and "Events (2 days training in Delchevo, 2 days Instagram Tour)". A public announcement was issued, and invitations to selected companies were distributed on the 23-rd and 30-th of June 2025. Once the bids were received, the evaluation committee was convened on the 4-th of August 2025. In line with the established rules and regulations, the bids were formally opened and thoroughly evaluated. This process was followed by notifying (on the 8-th of August) the selected companies and signing the contracts with the winners on the 31-st of July 2025 and on the 20-th of August 2025.
In parallel, work began on developing the project’s visual identity. This included the design of the official logo, slogan, and roll-up banner.
On the 5-th of September 2025, in close cooperation with the Municipality of Delcevo, PP3 organized a press conference aimed at informing the media and the wider public about the project, its planned activities, and the expected results. On the 25-th of September 2025, representative of the partner also participated in the press conference organized by the Bulgarian partners in Blagoevgrad, where further project visibility and cross-border cooperation were highlighted.
PP4:During the second reporting period the following actions were taken by PP4:
-on the 10-th of July 2025- we've participated in Training for beneficiaries “Implementation of the projects” under Priority 3 "Integrated Development of the Cross-Border Region" of the Interreg VI-A IPA Bulgaria - North Macedonia Programme.
-the manager of the company introduced the partner activities under the project in the Press conference in Delchevo on the 5-th of September 2025.
-on the 25-th of September 2025 the manager and the technical coordinator participated in the press conference, organized by the LP.
-at the end of September second advance payment of EUR1612 was received.
Since the beginning of implementation, the project has demonstrated steady and tangible progress toward strengthening cross-border tourism development in the Blagoevgrad–Delchevo region. The partnership between the four participating organizations has functioned effectively, enabling the timely completion of initial preparatory activities, the launch of significant investment processes, and the enhancement of public awareness on both sides of the border. At the strategic level, all partners established their project teams, ensured coordinated management, and prepared and approved the necessary procurement plans. The receipt and distribution of two advance payments further secured the financial stability required for uninterrupted implementation.
The Lead Partner, the Municipality of Blagoevgrad, completed the administrative and organizational tasks essential for project start-up, including staff appointments, preparation of the procurement plan, and submission of the initial payment requests. A comprehensive Communication Strategy was developed and approved, and the main tender for the reconstruction and expansion of the Observatory and Eco-educational Alley was officially launched. During the second reporting period, the Lead Partner finalized several key procurement processes related to author’s supervision, construction supervision, and information and publicity activities. The project team took part in beneficiary training events and contributed actively to two cross-border press conferences organized in September 2025, in Blagoevgrad and Delchevo, thereby strengthening public engagement and visibility.
The Municipality of Delcevo established an operational project team and prepared two major procurement procedures concerning the regulation of the Bregalnica riverbed and the construction of a skate park. Both procedures were completed successfully, and contracts were signed in August 2025. With the start of the second reporting period, the project moved from preparation to execution, as contractors began field works in accordance with agreed timelines and technical specifications. This progress has reinforced Delcevo’s institutional capacity and promoted the application of shared practices introduced through cross-border cooperation.
The Regional Advocacy Center /PP3/ successfully launched and completed two procurement procedures for the development of a marketing strategy, including the creation of a logo, slogan, and communication materials, as well as for the organization of tourism-related training and promotional events. In parallel, work progressed on developing the project’s visual identity. PP3 also played an active role in organizing international press conferences in September 2025, which significantly contributed to raising public awareness about project objectives and expected results.
PP4 fulfilled all administrative and reporting requirements, uploaded the necessary documentation in JEMS, and completed its procurement-related tasks. The partner participated in the initial online meeting with the Joint Secretariat, attended the beneficiary training sessions, and was actively represented at both press conferences. The receipt of two advance payments ensured the smooth continuation of PP4’s planned activities.
The added value of cooperation is clearly visible in the strengthened institutional ties, the effective communication between Bulgarian and North Macedonian partners, and the shared commitment to developing a unified cross-border tourism product. Joint events, synchronized publicity measures, and the exchange of expertise in areas such as procurement, construction oversight, marketing, and tourism promotion have generated benefits for all partners. These cooperative practices ensure that infrastructure improvements and promotional activities contribute to a coherent and attractive visitor experience across the entire region.
Overall, the project has successfully established its management and financial mechanisms, launched and in many areas completed essential procurement procedures, initiated major construction works, developed its core communication and marketing tools, and achieved strong visibility through targeted public events. With this solid foundation, the project is well positioned to achieve its main objectives, namely the enhancement of tourism infrastructure, the promotion of the cross-border region as a unified destination, and the strengthening of long-term cooperation in support of sustainable regional development.
During the third reporting period the partners stated the following:
LP: Following the deviations reported in the previous reporting period concerning Deliverable D.1.1.2 “Supplied equipment for Digital Planetarium and telescopes with specialized visual observation accessories” and the related procurement activity planned for July 2025, the Lead Partner addressed and resolved both deviations during the current reporting period.
-Specifically, the delay related to the preparation of the technical documentation for the supply of two telescopes for astronomical observations was resolved. After consultations with subject matter experts, updated technical specifications were developed to ensure that the selected telescopes meet current scientific standards and better align with the project’s objectives and operational requirements. In line with Section 8.1.2 of the PIM (“Modifications requesting notification to the JS”), the Lead Partner submitted a formal notification to the Joint Secretariat in November regarding the modification of the technical specifications related to the supply of telescopes.
-Consequently, the delay in launching the public procurement procedure for the “Manufacture, delivery and installation of an indoor planetarium with a diameter of 4.2 meters with 5 Full HD picture quality projectors and supply of telescopes with accessories” was also resolved. On 22 December 2025, the Lead Partner officially launched the procurement procedure. It covers the delivery, installation, and assembly of an indoor planetarium and the delivery of four telescopes . It was published in the national Public Procurement Register, with a submission deadline set for 12 January 2026, fully complying with national legislation and programme rules.
In addition to the above, the following key actions were implemented during the reporting period:
-on 7 October 2025, a contract was signed between the Municipality of Blagoevgrad and the contractor responsible for the construction and installation works under the project. On 24 November 2025, Annex 2 was issued – a protocol for the opening of the construction site and for determining the construction line and elevation of the building. Preparatory activities for clearing the site were launched.
-оn 1-st of December 2025, the Lead Partner prepared, signed, and submitted Request for Interim Payment No. 3, together with all relevant annexes, in compliance with Section 7.3.2 of the PIM.
-An important administrative change concerning Project Partner 2, Municipality of Delcevo, was officially communicated to the Joint Secretariat. In accordance with Section 8.2 of the PIM (“Administrative changes”), the Lead Partner notified that as of 28 October 2025, the legal representative of the Municipality of Delcevo/PP2/ is Mr. Ivan Gocevski, Mayor of Municipality of Delcevo. The notification was accompanied by all required official documents issued by the competent authorities of the Republic of North Macedonia, ensuring full compliance with programme requirements.
PP2: During the reporting period, construction works commenced for the regulation of the Bregalnica River riverbed in Delchevo. The route was cleared of sediment and soil, trees and roots, and the entire right bank of the riverbed was cleared and prepared for construction works. Part of the required materials (gabions and stone) were procured and delivered, and were installed in accordance with the technical documentation and the construction log.
All documentation related to this phase of the executed works has been prepared, certified, and submitted as an attachment to this report, including the construction logbook, construction diary, first interim payment certificate, supervision report, and site photographs.
PP3: During period 3, PP3 has finished with the design for the promotional materials related to project activities which were finalized and approved by the team responsible for the project’s visual identity. The following items have been produced, printed, and procured: pens, notebooks, folders, T-shirts, water thermoses, whistles, and whistle cords.
Also for the activity “Development of Marketing Strategy for the Popularization of the Tourist Product, Creation of Logo and Slogan of the Region,” preparations for research have been initiated. Questionnaires have been developed to guide the analysis and facilitate the collection of data from the field, which will serve as the basis for the marketing strategy.
PP4: PP4 did not carry out project activities during the reporting period, as its main task—the organization of the International Tourist Forum in Blagoevgrad—is planned for the final stage of the project. During this period, PP4 participated in coordination and communication activities and followed the progress of other partners’ work in order to ensure effective preparation for its future responsibilities. This will enable the successful promotion and capitalization of project results at a later stage.
The project continues to progress steadily, delivering concrete results in support of cross-border tourism development between Blagoevgrad and Delchevo. During the reporting periods, the partnership moved from preparatory activities to active implementation, while ensuring full compliance with programme and financial requirements.
All partners established operational project teams, implemented approved procurement plans, and maintained effective coordination with the Joint Secretariat. Advance payments secured financial stability and enabled uninterrupted implementation.
As Lead Partner, the Municipality of Blagoevgrad finalized key procurement procedures and initiated construction works for the reconstruction and expansion of the Observatory and Eco-educational Alley. Previously reported delays concerning the digital planetarium and telescopes were resolved through updated technical specifications and formal notification to the Joint Secretariat. In December 2025, the procurement procedure for the supply and installation of a 4.2-meter indoor planetarium and four telescopes was officially launched. Construction site preparation has begun, and an interim payment request was submitted in line with programme rules.
The Municipality of Delchevo (PP2) successfully completed procurement procedures for the regulation of the Bregalnica riverbed and the construction of a skate park. Construction works on the riverbed commenced, including site clearing and installation of structural materials. All activities were properly documented and certified. An administrative change regarding the legal representative of PP2 was formally communicated in accordance with programme requirements.
Project Partner 3 finalized the design and production of promotional materials and initiated research activities for the development of the regional marketing strategy, including the preparation of data collection tools. Joint press conferences contributed to increased public visibility.
Project Partner 4 fulfilled its administrative obligations and participated in coordination activities, while preparing for the organization of the International Tourist Forum in Blagoevgrad during the final phase of the project.
Overall, the project demonstrates effective management, advanced infrastructure implementation, strengthened cross-border cooperation, and coordinated marketing efforts, contributing to the development and promotion of a unified and sustainable tourism destination in the cross-border region.
In the course of the 4-th reporting period the partners stated the following:
LP: During the fourth reporting period, the project achieved a significant milestone with the launch of on-site infrastructure works for the reconstruction and expansion of the Observatory. The Lead Partner successfully completed initial clearing and demolition activities, including the stripping of old finishes and the removal of non-load-bearing partition walls. This phase allowed for a comprehensive technical assessment, which identified structural cracks and concealed leaks. To ensure the safety of the investment, the site has been secured with 24/7 onsite security.
Тhe LP issued a reasoned decision on March 27, 2026, to terminate the tender for the indoor planetarium and telescopes, as the submitted bids were deemed non-compliant or unsuitable. To maintain project momentum, the Municipality of Blagoevgrad will transition to a negotiated procedure in the upcoming period.
Additionally during the reporting period, preparatory activities were initiated for the launch of a public procurement procedure for 'Development of a Tourism Product Concept for the Blagoevgrad-Delchevo Region and Creation of a Digital Map and Tourism Packages' under the project. The procurement is divided into two lots.
Parallel to these technical efforts, the LP significantly enhanced the project's visibility in line with the communication strategy. Comprehensive information and updates are regularly published on the Municipality of Blagoevgrad’s official website (https://blagoevgrad.bg/). Additionally, new digital outreach channels were established to foster stakeholder engagement, including the Facebook profile "Integrated crossborder tourism actions in Blagoevgrad-Delchevo region" and the Instagram page "crosstouract." These platforms are actively promoting the project and results to local communities and visitors.
PP2: During this reporting period, Municipality of Delcevo continued to make solid progress in the implementation of the planned infrastructure activities in Delcevo. The works were focused on the continued development of the skate park area, as well as on the ongoing regulation of the Bregalnica River riverbed, building on the preparatory and initial construction phases reported previously. These interventions contributed to maintaining the planned implementation timeline and ensured continuity in the delivery of key infrastructure components. The progress achieved in both the recreational and environmental infrastructure segments directly supports the project’s expected outputs related to improved public spaces, strengthened riverbank management, and increased community resilience. Furthermore, the implementation progress during this period contributes to the wider partnership objectives by aligning with the activities of the other partners and supporting the timely achievement of joint outputs and deliverables.
PP3: During this reporting period, the draft version of the marketing strategy was prepared. The graphic design and visualization currently is in the final stage, alongside with the translation from English into Macedonian and Bulgarian language . The draft version of the communication plan, as an integral part of the marketing strategy, was also developed, in line with the agreement with the contracted company. In the next period the graphic design of the communication plan and visualization will be prepared and the plan will be printed in 100 copies. For the printing service the contractor has internal contract with the company. In terms of communication channels and increased project visibility, Facebook and Instagram fan pages for the project have been created, where all project related updates and information are regularly shared, including the progress of activities carried out by all project partners. These platforms enhance outreach, ensure timely dissemination of information, and support greater engagement with the wider public. All these products represent significant progress in strengthening the project’s visibility and communication framework. They also directly support the activities of other project partners by providing clear guidelines and ready-to-use materials for coordinated outreach, ensuring consistency in messaging, and facilitating the effective dissemination of project results and deliverables during this reporting period.
PP4: During the current reporting period, PP4’s efforts remained in the preparatory phase, as the primary deliverable—the International Tourist Forum in Blagoevgrad—is scheduled for the project's final stage. The involvement focused on inter-partner coordination and monitoring work package progress. This ensures that PP4 remains fully aligned with the project’s evolution, laying the groundwork for the successful execution and promotion of the Forum in the coming months.
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