A New Road Artery Connects Bulgaria and North Macedonia

The new border checkpoint (BCP) "Strumyani – Berovo", also known as "Klepaloto", is expected to be completed by 2029. The project is of strategic importance for cross-border cooperation and was confirmed by the Deputy Minister of Regional Development, Desislava Georgieva.

"The project is strategic because it engages nearly 30% of the resources of the Interreg VI-A Bulgaria – North Macedonia program," noted Georgieva.

Key facts about the project:

  • Investment: 11 million euros, co-financed by the EU.
  • Capacity: 24-hour operation for light vehicles and cargo vehicles up to 3.5 tons.
  • Location: Situated at 1,300 meters above sea level in the "Kresna – Ilindentsi" protected area.
  • Route: "Option 1" has been selected, which ensures minimal impact on biodiversity and nature.

Strategic significance

The border checkpoint will provide a direct link between international transport corridors 4 and 8. In addition to facilitating the movement of people and goods, the facility aims to stimulate the development of regional tourism and bring communities on both sides of the border closer together.

Currently, the project has successfully passed all environmental procedures, which is a critical step for the absorption of European funds. Parallel work is also underway to secure additional funding from the state budget for the connecting road infrastructure.