Skopje, 6 December 2021 (MIA) – Economic cooperation between North Macedonia and the United States, benefits from North Macedonia’s NATO membership as well as regional economic cooperation was discussed by Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Fatmir Bytyqi and US Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Gabriel Escobar, during his working visit to North Macedonia. Bytyqi and Escobar reaffirmed the excellent political and economic relations between their countries and concluded that the United States remains one of the strongest strategic partners of the country and strong supporter of its Euro-Atlantic integration efforts, Bytyqi’s office said. “Deputy PM Bytyqi said that NATO membership has ensured stability and security in the country, which increases the possibility of new investments and increased competitiveness at international level. He said the government is committed to implementing all necessary reforms and solving open issues to join the EU,” said the press release The Deputy PM and the US Department of State official also discussed ways for improving the business climate, improving infrastructural connectivity in the country and with its neighbors, as well as implementation of projects aimed at protecting the environment and for sustainable economic development. Escobar said the US supports all regional economic cooperation of competitive value for the Western Balkan countries. Also, Deputy PM Bytyqi during the meeting reaffirmed North Macedonia’s commitment to becoming an energy hub in the Balkans. “Bytyqi and Escobar concluded that the Republic of North Macedonia’s place is in the EU and that much-needed reforms will be implemented with US support,” said the press release.