Skopje, 20 September 2024 (MIA) - We are entering a strong investment cycle in the construction and modernization of the road and railway network in Macedonia, through which we will build quality transport networks in the region and contribute to faster integration with the European Union, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Aleksandar Nikoloski told Friday's meetings with transport ministers of the Western Balkans and EU transport ministers, as well as with representatives from various institutions of the Union held as part of a two-day meeting of the transport ministers of the European Union in Hungary.

Nikoloski stressed the importance of EU support in implementing such projects, noting that their realization will mean economic development and better communication for all the countries in the region, the Transport Ministry said in a press release.

"In separate meetings with Hungary's Construction and Investment Minister, János Lázár, with Albania's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure, Belinda Balluku, as well as with the Executive Director of the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER), Alberto Mazzola, he said that Macedonia is increasing investments in the construction and modernization of the European transport Corridors 8 and 10, connecting the East-West axis, as well as a fast connection to the south with Athens and to the north with the countries of Central Europe. He highlighted the strong commitment of the Macedonian Government to building modern highways on the western part of Corridor 8, which are to ensure quality regional connectivity, noting that by the end of the year the eastern part of this Corridor will be completed," reads the press release. 

As regards railway connection, the press release adds, the construction of a two-track high-speed railway on Corridor 10, a project that will provide additional value to the overall economy in the region, is a priority. On the Corridor 8 railway, he stressed that Macedonia is not giving up on the idea of ​​a high-quality railway connection with Bulgaria.

"The construction of a high-speed railway on Corridor 10, as well as high-quality road and rail connections with Albania and Bulgaria, are projects that will bring great benefits to all countries in the region and will enable reliable and fast transportation of products and passengers. That is why we must act together with good development programs and plans and ask for strong support from our partners from Europe," said Minister Nikoloski. 

He noted that the country also started with the modernization of several border crossings as part of a project to facilitate trade and transport between the Western Balkan countries. 

"The meeting of European Union ministers is an excellent opportunity to present our plans and activities for the development and modernization of the infrastructure in Macedonia and to make a serious contribution to the regional development and integration of the entire region," Nikoloski said. 

At the meetings, notes the press release, he highlighted the Government's firm commitment to achieve the set goals of the country related to the European Union accession process.  

Photo: Ministry of Transport