Foreign Policy Diplomacy: North Macedonia’s FM Timcho Mucunski met Qatar’s PM and foreign minister in Doha, reviewing bilateral cooperation and common issues. Bilateral Agreements: Doha and Skopje also held political talks and signed three deals covering political consultations, diplomatic training, and visa-free entry for holders of official passports. EU Border Friction: A major airport CEO urged the EU to pause the entry/exit system, saying border processing has doubled and is causing chaos—an issue that hits Western Balkan travelers and trade routes. Domestic Politics & Elections: North Macedonia’s election law debate was suspended after thousands of opposition amendments, with SDSM warning diaspora e-voting could enable controlled or fraudulent voting. Energy Security: Greece and North Macedonia reaffirmed the gas interconnector schedule, targeting completion in 2027 and stressing supply diversification via LNG routes. EU Funding Pressure: Western Balkan governments face potential losses of Growth Plan money if reform targets aren’t met by July 15, with the Commission linking payments to fully implemented reforms. Digital Media & Regulation: A regional study says social media platforms now shape access to news across South-East Europe, including North Macedonia, while regulation struggles to keep up. Cybersecurity: A malware loader dubbed SharkLoader was reported as reaching victims including North Macedonia, using fake installers to deliver Cobalt Strike. AI & Youth: UNICEF estimates 20 million children in 10 countries already use AI, including North Macedonia, raising concerns as safeguards lag behind fast adoption.