“My first experience with the CEF dates back to 2018, when I was a delegate of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management as one of the members of the working group. Since then, I have participated in several CEF trainings in various formats. Knowledge Sharing on Costing of Structural Reforms, Fiscal Programming of Structural Reforms, and Integration of Structural Reforms into the Budget are all highly in-depth trainings, methodologically designed and implemented. Working in a group motivates to try harder, and it is a great honor and privilege to cooperate with competent colleagues from other institutions.

Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, the trainings were transformed into webinars. This was a great and valuable experience, confirming that the transfer of knowledge can be further improved.  Consultative meetings have helped us better connect and, through teamwork, propose really demanding reforms that should contribute to strengthening the economy and quality of life. Covid-19 has slowed down the implementation of the planned reforms, but we remain motivated to accomplish the set goals.

At the beginning, the biggest challenge for me was to get into the methodology and adapt to the work frameworks. Now, after several trainings and shared experiences, it is possible to monitor macro-fiscal projections in a quality way, and differentiate between what is a measure and what is a reform. Budgeting, planning, setting activities and clear indicators are meaningful lessons learned and contribute to the efficient performance of regular job activities. Planning must be accompanied by execution, and this requires cooperation of all institutions involved in the process. Cooperation at the regional level and constant learning are vital.

That is why I believe that we are all on the right track and why I am looking forward to new learning opportunities and meetings.”