Skopje, 4 January 2023 (MIA) – Finance Minister Fatmir Besimi does not believe a new tender for the construction of the Chebren hydropower plant will be published prior to the elections, after the 14th tender fell through.

"When time comes to re-evaluate the next steps, which will probably not be this year due to the elections, it is unrealistic to make promises that we will be able to publish a new tender," Minister Besimi said during a press briefing on Thursday.

He said there were arguments for and against either option -- whether to build Chebren through a public-private partnership or domestic funds.

This investment should be realized, Besimi said, adding that national interests were protected by the Constitution and could not be threatened by one contract.

"We need to hire the best. Our national interest is clearly stated in the laws and Constitution. It is impossible that one deal can do it any damage. It is also important to realize the projects and hear all arguments in a public debate," Besimi stressed.

The last tender for the construction of Chebren fell through after the Greek company PPC Archirodon failed to extend the bank guarantee by Dec. 31.

Association of Engineers member Konstantin Dimitrov said Wednesday that they would launch an initiative for a law that will make it possible to start building the Chebren hydropower plant with local capacities.

"We should adopt a law for the construction of Chebren, Galishte, Skochivir, i.e. integrally solve the program with the river basins where Crna Reka meets the Vardar valley. Make a law that cannot be changed no matter who comes to power. Set aside funding in advance," Dimitrov stressed. ssh/mr