The Balkan Research Center at the International Balkan University hosted a distinguished guest lecture by H.E. Martin Pammer, Ambassador of Austria to North Macedonia, on the topic “North Macedonia, Austria, and the EU Enlargement: State of Play.”

The event was formally opened by Asst. Prof. Dr. Marta Vejseli, herself an Austrian citizen and member of the Faculty of Law, who emphasized that the institution is dedicated to cultivating legal professionals who are both rigorously trained and globally attuned.

Addressing a full auditorium of students, and faculty guests, the Ambassador provided a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of North Macedonia’s EU accession process. He outlined the progress made to date, emphasized the pivotal legal and structural reforms underway, and articulated Austria’s unwavering commitment to supporting North Macedonia on its path toward full European Union membership—through legal, economic, and political engagement.

The event, moderated by Asst. Prof. Dr. Flamur Ismaili, Director of the Balkan Research Center, concluded with an engaging Q&A session and a courtesy visit to the University’s Rector, Prof. Dr. Lütfi Sunar. His Excellency expressed readiness to initiate academic partnerships between IBU and Austrian institutions.

This event represents a strategic milestone in strengthening Austria- North Macedonia academic and diplomatic relations, and it exemplifies International Balkan Universities’ role as a forward-leaning, internationally engaged educational institution.

- Meeting with Rector

After the lecture, the Rector of International Balkan University, Prof. Dr. Lütfi Sunar, met with Ambassador Martin Pammer. During their meeting, they discussed various topics, including the potential for enhanced academic cooperation, the importance of EU integration for North Macedonia, and avenues for deepening diplomatic and cultural ties between Austria and North Macedonia. The discussion further underscored the commitment of both institutions to foster international collaboration and mutual understanding.