Sofia, 15 February 2022 (MIA) – We are interested in the Petrich-Strumica gas pipeline project, says Economy Minister Kreshnik Bekteshi and adds the Government favors enhancement of cooperation with Bulgaria and other neighboring countries, MIA reports from Sofia. “This goes for the energy sector, especially regarding the diversification of gas supply to North Macedonia. Another important factor is the safety of gas supply since heating in Skopje depends on this energy resource. The country is also interested in ensuring independent supply of LNG from the Alexandroupolis terminal and is in permanent communication with investors, including Bulgaria,” Minister Bekteshi told BNT. According to him, North Macedonia is interested in all options to increase gas quantities and safety in supply for industry and private consumers. “As we enter the post-COVID-19 period, economic activities are gradually gaining pace, including the launch of a new Sofia-Skopje flight, investments in infrastructure, such as the express road leading to the border with Bulgaria. We are also working on realization of the railway section and I am certain these activities will lead to a rise in the number of tourists on both sides,” says Bekteshi. He says the bilateral memorandum in the field of tourism is to be signed in April, including joint promotion at travel fairs and in third countries, so that foreign tourists visit both North Macedonia and Bulgaria.