Skopje, 7 December 2024 (MIA) - In a press release on Saturday, the Government said the economy is its priority, adding that the 2025 Budget pledges higher wages, an investment boom, strong economic development and a better standard of living for citizens. It is committed to economic transformation, GDP growth, as well as new foreign direct investments that will generate growth and development, reads the press release. 

"The 2025 Budget is developmental and pledges higher wages, investments and economic development of the country. For 2025, the Government is committed to a complete transformation of Macedonia and improving the standard of living for its citizens. The priority and the goal is to ensure a better quality of life for all citizens, future and prosperity of Macedonia," adds the press release.

Therefore, it notes, the 2025 Budget provides funds to increase pensions. This includes 105 billion denars for pensions, i.e. pension raises of 2,500 denars in March. Thus, the Government says it is fulfilling the promise of higher pensions for over 330,000 pensioners. Also, 48 billion denars have been provided for the payment of wages, and 2 billion denars additionally in block grants for increasing wages in education. The Government notes it is also providing 14.5 billion denars for supporting vulnerable categories, as well as 5.2 billion denars more for healthcare, or a total of 53.4 billion denars.

The Government adds that the 2025 Budget also includes an increase in wages for employees in education and teaching staff, as well as an increase in wages in healthcare, including healthcare workers and medical personnel.

It points out that it is working dedicatedly and responsibly for the economy, and it has already secured EUR 250 million for an "investment boom" in municipalities for the construction of schools, preschools, road and water infrastructure.

"In addition, we have reached out for dialogue with unions and employers, to jointly make decisions in the interest of citizens. Our commitment and policy is to create a future for all, to bring about changes and put Macedonia back on the right track. The economy is our priority," the press release reads. 

Photo: MIA archive