"As we celebrate ten years since the CEF became an international organization, this anniversary represents not only a milestone in CEF’s history — it is a moment of pride for all of us who have been part of this remarkable journey.

When the CEF gained international status, it did more than change its legal framework. It opened new horizons. It gave access to a broader circle of partners and donors, ensured more sustainable financing, and was recognized by the European Union as a trusted knowledge hub for EU candidates and potential candidates. Most importantly, it brought us closer together as a regional community—one that today unites over 40 dedicated professionals from across the region.

North Macedonia has been proud to be part of this journey from the very beginning. Since 2001, when the CEF was established as a Slovenian training center, we have shared many challenges and many successes. Today, both I, as Chair of the CEF Governing Board, and all its members, hold not only responsibility but also deep gratitude—for the trust, cooperation, and friendships built over the years.

The Ministry of Finance remains firmly committed to demonstrating that North Macedonia can be an economically strong country with resilient institutions built on knowledge, professionalism, and integrity. We are deeply focused on strengthening institutional capacity, investing in the intellectual potential of our people, and ensuring that our achievements are recognized—both at home and internationally. Within the CEF community, we strive to uphold a responsible, forward-looking approach that reflects these values in every partnership and reform we pursue.

Our Ministry has walked side by side with the CEF on important reforms. Together, we have strengthened the way we plan, cost, and evaluate policies—making them more transparent, inclusive, and effective. Through programs such as the Certification Training of Public Sector Accountants (PACT) and the Certification Training of Public Sector Internal Auditors (TIAPS), we have built a new generation of public accountants and auditors, trained to the highest professional standards. These professionals are not only guardians of public finances; they are also mentors, role models, and drivers of a culture where responsibility and professionalism go hand in hand.

And with the support of the CEF, we are developing our own Public Finance Academy — a place where knowledge is multiplied, innovation is encouraged, and learning never stops. This reflects our vision of the future: institutions that are resilient, people who are empowered, and reforms that are sustainable because they are owned and lived by those who implement them.

Our collective achievements extend well beyond national borders. The real strength of the CEF lies in its ability to connect national progress with regional cooperation. It provides a trusted platform where colleagues—from Skopje to Ljubljana, from Podgorica to Chisinau—share experiences, exchange knowledge, and learn from one another.

This is the essence of the CEF: a community that values openness, draws strength from diversity, and transforms ideas into solutions tested across different contexts.

As we mark this special anniversary, we are not only celebrating the years behind us—we are celebrating the energy, creativity, and solidarity that will carry us forward. The CEF has shown us that learning is not a one-time achievement, but a continuous journey; and that cooperation is the key to resilience and progress.

On behalf of the Ministry of Finance of North Macedonia, and as Chair of the CEF Governing Board, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the CEF team, its partners, and its entire community. Let us continue building institutions that are capable, resilient, and ready for tomorrow.

The institutions and citizens of North Macedonia are deeply grateful for the strong foundations we are building—both nationally and regionally. Together, shoulder to shoulder, we will continue to grow, to cooperate, and to shape a shared future rooted in trust, learning, and mutual progress."