Čair seeks Bursa’s help to restore and revive the Skopje Old Bazaar
Mayor Izet Medzhiti held talks with Bursa’s Shahin Biba on technical expertise, financial support and a regional advisory council for restoration.
The municipality of Čair is exploring cooperation with Bursa to help restore and revive the Skopje Old Bazaar, following talks held during Mayor Izet Medzhiti’s official visit to Turkey.
During the meeting, Čair representatives discussed with Shahin Biba — who currently leads Bursa — the possibility that the Turkish city share technical experience and offer financial support for a restoration and revitalization project focused on the historic bazaar.
Advisory council and regional partners
As part of the initiative, the parties plan to establish a council to lobby for and support the project. The proposed membership includes Shahin Biba, Deputy Minister of Culture Recep Altepe, Bajram Vardar and other public figures from the Balkans.
Mayor Izet Medzhiti highlighted that ties between Albanians and their places of origin can be a significant asset for building concrete partnerships and for protecting and developing historical and cultural heritage.
Čair officials say the council should expand institutional backing and attract new partners so the restoration preserves the Old Bazaar’s historic authenticity while also promoting its economic and tourist potential.
Further steps discussed include technical exchanges and follow-up meetings to define concrete forms of cooperation and possible funding arrangements.
Photo: Opshtina Chair
