On June 5, 2025, in a public event organised by the Municipality of Prespes, the BorPres2 Programme’s flagship project officially marked the beginning of infrastructure development works for the future Laimos–Markova Noga border crossing.
The first person to symbolically cross the future border point on foot was the EU Ambassador to North Macedonia, Michalis Rokas. Arriving at the event in Prespa, he described the day as “significant and historic.” He stated: “These projects are funded by the EU, and we hope to support communication between peoples while also protecting Prespa, a region of global heritage within the European Community. The border crossing will boost tourism, communication, and trade, and I am both happy and deeply moved.”
Greek Minister Theodoros Livanios, in his opening speech, emphasized: “We are connecting people and regions with respect for both security and nature.” According to the Region of Western Macedonia, the new border crossing will operate “in full alignment with Schengen standards,” aiming to enhance connectivity, security and sustainable development in the Prespes region.
“This is not just the beginning of an infrastructure project, but the realization of a shared vision – a vision rooted in regional cooperation, European integration and the lasting partnership between our two countries,” stated Interior Minister in North Macedonia, Panche Toshkovski.
BorPres2 is an operation of strategic importance, implemented under the INTERREG VI-A IPA Programme “Greece-North Macedonia 2021-2027” with a total budget of €7.5 million and a duration of 36 months. It includes the construction of a customs and police station on the Greek side, the upgrade of facilities and equipment of the existing police station in North Macedonia, and the creation and promotion of a cross-border footpath linking Agios Germanos with Brajchino. This new crossing will dramatically reduce travel time between Lemos and Resen from over two hours to just 40 minutes, enabling greater cross-border mobility, stronger economic and cultural exchanges and a boost in regional tourism. The crossing will support cars and passenger vehicles (up to 10 people), while excluding trucks and buses to protect the area’s fragile natural and cultural environment. The project is implemented by the Region of Western Macedonia (as Lead Partner), in collaboration with the Ministries of Interior of Greece and North Macedonia, as well as the Municipalities of Prespes and Resen.
Photos: Municipality of Prespes
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