Independence Day Costs: North Macedonia’s Independence Day celebrations (Sept. 8) cost €5.5 million in total, with about €4.9 million covered by the State Lottery and roughly €650,000 by “socially responsible” companies, after earlier reporting raised questions about who paid. Public Health: West Nile virus remains a serious concern: eight patients with neuroinvasive cases are hospitalized in Skopje and a 70-year-old man has died, as authorities report 58 infections and eight deaths since the outbreak intensified. NATO & Security: A NATO Joint Force Command Naples delegation visited North Macedonia, meeting senior officials to discuss regional security, training opportunities, and interoperability. EU Path & Ukraine: Foreign Minister Timcho Mucunski says North Macedonia is ready to share its EU accession experience with Ukraine, stressing reforms and opposing “intimidation” or unilateral concessions during talks. Energy & Jobs: Alcazar Energy Partners reached financial close for the Štip wind farm, a €180 million project expected to be fully operational by 2028, with major financing from EBRD/IFC and Erste and hundreds of jobs during construction and operations. Culture & Community: The Maškari Amende festival returns in Šuto Orizari (Sept. 11-12), marking 30 years of the municipality with music, youth activities, and cultural exchanges. Transport Disruption: Regional hauliers plan EU border blockades from Sept. 14 over the Schengen stay limit for professional drivers. Business Expansion: TGI Fridays signed a development deal with Devolli Group for its first expansion into Kosovo, Albania and North Macedonia, with 10 restaurants planned across the three markets.