Skopje, 26 May 2023 (MIA) - After the Parliament adopted the law amendments related to the construction of the Corridors VIII and Xd motorway sections on Friday, the Government said the interventions relate to the construction of strategic infrastructure projects of national interest, while highlighting the ensuing economic benefits.

The existing laws are amended in order to ensure efficient and swift realization of strategic projects related to the construction of roads, railways, gas pipelines and other structures of national interest. The construction of strategic infrastructure projects is important primarily for improvement of the people's lives, ensuring a modern and safe road and railway infrastructure, balanced regional development, and incentives for development of the economy in general. The construction of Corridors VIII and Xd is among the more significant strategic projects, connecting the country to the west and east, with the Durres and Burgas ports, said the Government.

It adds that the motorways open further opportunities for construction of various businesses, such as gas stations, restaurants, hotels, facilities, opening new jobs for the people living in the areas where the roads are to be built.

The realization of this strategic project will open 8,000 jobs, bring investments worth EUR 1.3 billion and an annual nominal GDP growth of two percent over the next five years, finally making North Macedonia a true crossroad on the Balkans, reads the press release.

Earlier today, the Parliament adopted the amendments to the five laws related to the realization of the Bechtel-Enka agreement on construction of four motorway sections within Corridors VIII and Xd. Amendments to the laws on labor relations, expropriation, building, urban planning, and nominating a strategic partner for implementation of the project of construction of Corridors VIII and Xd were adopted in expedited procedure.