Skopje, 26 June 2023 (MIA) - The bilateral screening meetings on Chapter 14 - Transport Policy, and Chapter 21 - Trans-European Networks, within Cluster 4 - Green Agenda and Sustainable Connectivity, began in Brussels on Monday, the Secretariat for European Affairs said in a press release. 

"Transport policy is one of the most important pillars for growth, competitiveness and development of modern economies. On the other hand, we know the significance and importance of the Trans-European networks, which identify the priority corridors and thematic areas of the European transport infrastructure. We welcome the European Commission's intention to invest additional efforts in the development of the new European transport corridor in the Western Balkans," deputy chief EU negotiator Drita Abdiu-Halili told representatives of the European Commission. 

She added that the Government is actively promoting regional cooperation and connectivity, highlighting the international dimension of all types of transport, with a particular focus on the development and modernization of the country's transport infrastructure within Trans-European networks. 

"We strive to improve connectivity and strengthen our contribution to European transport corridors. Our efforts are mainly focused on construction of transport lines, as well as rehabilitation of the existing transport network," Abdiu-Halili said.

The screening meetings on these two very important and extensive chapters aim to give a clearer picture of North Macedonia's alignment with the EU acquis so far, in terms of measures implemented, future plans and expected time frame, said the Secretariat for European Affairs. 

Representatives from several state institutions, including the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Economy, the Civil Aviation Agency, the State Transport Inspectorate, the Public Enterprise for State Roads, the Public Enterprise for Railway Infrastructure, the State Commission for the Prevention of Corruption and the Secretariat for European Affairs, will attend the screening meetings on Chapters 14 and 21, which will last through the end of the working week.