The project is financed under the IPA 3 Programme for cross-border cooperation with the Republic of Bulgaria for 2021-2027.
The strategic project for the construction/rehabilitation of a new border crossing Strumyani - Berovo (Klepalo) is a joint project of Bulgaria and North Macedonia. This project aims to enhance connectivity between the two nations, streamline trade processes, and promote tourism exchange. By operationalizing the new border crossing point, it will ease regular traffic flow, spur economic growth in the region, and provide direct connectivity to the vital Struma motorway, an integral component of the trans-European transport network.
PROJECT FACTS:
The project is divided in 2 phases.
In the first phase, which is expected to end in 2026, preparatory activities related to planning, design and selection of contractors will be carried out.
In the second phase - from 2027 to 2029, construction activities of the infrastructure of the border complex will be realized. Several buildings and road infrastructure will be built on Bulgarian territory, while existing structures and facilities will be reconstructed and modernized on the Macedonian side.
Objective: Developing sustainable, climate resilient, intelligent and intermodal national, regional and local mobility, including improved access to TEN-T and cross-border mobility". Having a new BCCP built and operated on both sides of the border the expected changes will be related to facilitating the increasing traffic of people and goods between the two countries; strengthening communication links between the two countries and improving and extending access to core TEN-T, including the connection with Corridors IV and VIII, which is to improve regional connectivity and boost the economic growth of the programme area.
Duration: 2023-2029
Value: EUR 3.6million for the Macedonian side
Outcome: Constructed/upgraded and functional border crossing point Klepalo. Improved connectivity between the two countries, facilitating trade and encouraging tourism. Facilitation of frequent traffic between the two countries, stimulation of the economic development of the region and direct access to the Struma highway, which is an important part of the trans-European transport network.