Skopje, 10 September 2024 (MIA) - First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Environment and Physical Planning, Izet Mexhiti, began his official visit to Washington by holding talks with the US Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Western Balkans, Alexander Kasanof.

According to the Ministry of Environment, Mexhiti, joined by the Minister of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources, Sanja Bozhinovska, informed Kasanof about the latest political developments in North Macedonia during the meeting.

Mexhiti emphasized the new government's commitment to improving the citizens' standard of living, increasing investments in infrastructure, energy, and education, as well as its uncompromising engagement in the fight against corruption - a problem that, as he pointed out, has been inherited but one that the government is ready to address decisively.

He noted that joining the European Union is a priority for most of our citizens and that efforts are being intensified to speed up this process.

“The United States has always been a strong partner and ally, and we thank you for the close cooperation we have as NATO member countries, as the role of the United States as a model for democratic development and stability is of vital importance to us,” Mexhiti said, as stated in the press release.

During the meeting, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Western Balkans, Alexander Kasanof, expressed strong US support for the Western Balkans and underscored his commitment to helping the country on its path toward EU membership, especially, as stated in the press release, at a time when we are facing unprovoked Russian aggression in Ukraine.

Photo: Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning