China-CEEC Local Leaders: More than 600 delegates from 44 countries met in Shandong for the 7th China–CEEC Local Leaders’ Meeting, with North Macedonia’s Deputy PM Ivan Stoilkovikj among speakers, pushing business matchmaking and local-to-local cooperation. Energy Efficiency Push: A Belgrade panel urged companies to start with energy efficiency, then move toward new energy sources, as Serbia signals major state investment in power and gas infrastructure. Gas Interconnectors: Serbia’s energy minister discussed a World Bank-backed gas development programme, prioritizing new interconnections with North Macedonia and Romania to strengthen supply security. North Macedonia–Croatia Deal: Prime ministers Mickoski and Plenković are set to sign a strategic cooperation agreement, with a business forum focused on energy, transport, infrastructure and investment. EU Enlargement Pressure: EU committee discussions again flagged North Macedonia’s accession process as at a standstill, while enlargement models face internal EU debate. Retail Demand Signal: North Macedonia retail sales rose 2.1% in real terms in April, with food and essential categories driving stronger growth. Data Centres Framework: North Macedonia says legal amendments for data centre development are nearing completion to attract digital infrastructure investment. Corridor VIII & Connectivity: US policy highlights Corridor 8 as a strategic priority, while regional transport and energy links remain central to cooperation talks.