Energy & Industry (North Macedonia): ESM signed a $2.4m World Bank grant to fund preparatory work for the REK Bitola 1 cogeneration plant, including feasibility studies and expansion of the Bitola district heating network. Housing & Cost of Living (Skopje): Eurostat data puts Skopje among the cheapest European capitals for rent, with a two-bedroom average at €470—useful context for local construction and property demand. Monetary Policy (North Macedonia): The National Bank of North Macedonia lifted its key interest rate to 4.25% as inflation stays elevated and credit growth remains strong. Border & Logistics (Greece–North Macedonia): Northern Greece plans upgrades at the Evzonoi border crossing to cut waiting times and improve flow, supporting smoother regional trade and tourism. Environment (Dojran Lake): Reports warn Dojran Lake’s bird sanctuary is still waiting for protection as reed belts shrink under agricultural conversion and a key management plan remains unadopted. Regional Governance & EU path: The European Parliament approved North Macedonia’s 2025 progress report, while MEP Ilhan Kyuchyuk stressed EU criteria must deliver tangible rule-of-law results. EU–Western Balkans push: At a summit in Tivat, the EU pressed for faster integration of the region into EU—also tied to security and war-policy alignment. Film & Creative Industries (North Macedonia): Marija Apchevska Petrovska is shooting debut feature “Spring Cleaning” in Skopje, adding momentum to regional production networks.