Minister of Education and Science Pance Kralev and British Ambassador to Macedonia Christopher Yvon attended Tuesday the first meeting with members of the inter-sectoral coordination group for professional qualifications, which includes representatives of ministries and other bodies competent in the project's implementation, supported and funded by the UK Embassy.

Mutual recognition of professional qualifications is one of the foundations for open and equal access to the European Union for individuals who want to practice their profession in any European country. As an EU candidate-country, Macedonia is obliged to meet all required conditions so that professionals from other countries can execute their profession in Macedonia in the same way as in their homeland without any obstacles.

"The project, supported and funded by the British Embassy, will enable the creation of norms and foundations for regulation of professional qualifications obtained in the Republic of Macedonia with the same used in all EU member-states. Upon completion of this project, individuals that have acquired professional qualifications, primarily of technical character, will have mobility in their job - in Macedonia and Union members", said Minister Kralev.

He voiced belief the project would contribute to Macedonia's approximation to the EU Acquis, enabling workforce mobility after the country becomes an EU member.

British Ambassador Yvon stressed the project aimed at transferring experiences applied in his country.

"One of the main strengths and advantages of the EU is that it enables the free movement of workforce at a market of 500 million people. I eagerly await the day when people with acquired qualifications in Macedonia will be able to use them in any EU member-state, as soon as the country joins the Union", added Yvon.

The British Embassy has also supported the project for harmonization of the national legislation with the EU Directive for Professional Qualifications, resulting in the development and adoption of the Law on Recognition of Professional Qualifications.