Thessaloniki, 22 October 2024 (MIA) - We have launched structural reforms in all sectors. We are realizing the largest investment activity in the road network and initiated procedures for the construction of several motorways while completing several expressways. Our most ambitious project is the construction of a fast railway at Corridor X, thus ensuring a swift connection to the Thessaloniki port and Central Europe. We also want to offer a competitive environment for investors, Deputy PM and Minister of Transport Aleksandar Nikoloski told the Southeast Europe Connectivity Forum in Thessaloniki on Tuesday.

Minister Nikoloski said Macedonia is the link to the Thessaloniki port and that is why Corridor X partner-countries should think how to facilitate transport and trade, the Ministry of Transport said in a press release.

"Governments have a task to ensure fast and safe transport. My goal is to build a fast railway along Corridor X, which is a strategic corridor for us all, and we are committed to this project. We are also working on the construction of a railway along Corridor VIII towards Bulgaria. Regarding the road infrastructure, we are focused on the construction of several motorways and expressways along both corridors," said Nikoloski.

He presented the investment opportunities before numerous companies, noting that economic indices are expected to significantly improve in the coming period.

"We expect the highest GDP growth in the region in 2025. We have started to work on the interconnector with Greece, use the gas from Azerbaijan and reduce dependency from the Russian gas, which would significantly impact manufacturing. We are also experiencing strong development in the photovoltaic sector. In addition, we are working on simplification of procedures and I believe we will realize our plans," said Nikoloski.

At the forum sidelines, Minister Nikoloski met with Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Christos Stylianides, discussing bilateral economic cooperation.

Nikoloski highlighted the Government's commitment for the region's economic development through participation in joint projects, while noting the need for quality networking.

At the meeting, Nikoloski said "a large portion of Macedonia's export-oriented companies cooperate with the Thessaloniki port, which demonstrates the need for quality networking and faster transport of goods and services".

Interlocutors agreed this is the initial point in the future collaboration, expressing assurance there is enormous room for enlargement of the economic cooperation in various sectors.

The Southeast Europe Connectivity Forum brings together transport companies and organizations from Greece, chambers of commerce, logistics centers and various financial institutions, reads the press release.

Photo: Ministry of Transport