North Macedonia and Kosovo on Wednesday launched a joint border control system at the Jazhince-Globocice crossing point, aiming to streamline movement and reduce wait times by establishing a shared inspection facility.
The “One-Stop-Shop” system, already operational at the Blace-Hani i Elezit crossing, is expected to ease cross-border traffic and enhance regional connectivity.
North Macedonia’s First Deputy Prime Minister, Izet Mexhiti, said the success of the model in Blace demonstrated its potential to improve ties between cities such as Tetovo and Pristina.
“Initially, there was doubt whether the system would function. But in Blace, long queues have turned into wait times of just one or two minutes,” Mexhiti said. “With this step, Tetovo is now closer to Pristina, just as Skopje has become.”
Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski noted that the Jazhince crossing is heavily used during the summer season and that the new system would significantly ease the flow of travellers.
“Although Blace remains the busiest crossing with Kosovo, Jazhince also sees substantial traffic, especially in the summer,” Toshkovski said.
Kosovo’s Interior Minister, Xhelal Sveçla, said the crossing is vital for local communities and for cooperation between the two countries’ police forces in combating illegal activities.
He added that reconstruction of the connecting road is also planned to further boost traffic efficiency.
“This system will benefit citizens of both countries, particularly those living in the border region, by allowing faster processing and movement,” Sveçla said.
Jazhince-Globocice is the second border crossing to implement the “One-Stop-Shop” model. Authorities said the system may soon be extended to border points with Serbia and Albania to enhance regional mobility.