Skopje, 16 May 2023 (MIA) – The Government’s measures tackling the economic and energy crisis, as well as the reforms necessary for the fulfillment of North Macedonia’s strategic goal of EU membership, were at the focus of Tuesday’s meeting between Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Economic affairs Fatmir Bytyqi and a delegation from the European Parliament led by MEP Andreas Schieder, said the Government in a press release.

In the introductory address at the meeting, the Vice President of the European Parliament, Rainer Wieland, stressed that North Macedonia is exceptionally important for the EU and that he recognizes the reforms being implemented by the country during its efforts to join the Union.

According to the press release, at the meeting, Bytyqi informed the members of the European delegation about the efforts being made by the country and the significant progress in the fulfillment of the EU accession criteria, which is a result of the comprehensive reforms implemented in various sectors, demonstrating the country’s commitment to an accelerated alignment with EU standards and complete respect for European values.

“These efforts cover key areas such as rule of law, independence of the judiciary, anti-corruption measures, press freedom and the protection of human rights. Our progress is serious proof of our commitment as a Government to fully respect the same values. Apart from bolstering our commitment to these principles, our EU membership will also secure a sustainable framework for development, economic prosperity and strengthened regional cooperation,” said Bytyqi.

The Deputy PM touched upon measures aimed at stabilizing the economy and incentivizing growth.

“We focused on reforms for attracting foreign investments, strengthening competitiveness and encouraging entrepreneurship. The initiatives have given positive results and led to an increase in direct foreign investments and the creation of new job, despite the challenging circumstances,” said Bytyqi, adding that North Macedonia has a solid institutional framework and strategy for the promotion and facilitating of investments.

Bytyqi voiced gratitude for the great financial aid and support that the country received from the EU during the energy crisis, and which it is still receiving through the IPA, the Western Balkans Investment Framework, and in the form of macro financial support. Additionally, the Deputy PM informed the MEPs about the Government’s domestic efforts during the energy crisis, subsidizing electricity for 650.000 households and 70.000 businesses.

Deputy PM Bytyqi also spoke about the anti-Covid measures, as a result of which over 140.000 jobs were saved, and about the price caps which led to a reduction of inflation. 

At the meeting, the Deputy PM was accompanied by Minister of Environment and Physical Planning Kaja Shukova, the State Secretary at the Secretariat for European Affairs, Drita Abdiu Halili, the State Counselor at the Secretariat for European Affairs, Dragan Tilev, and members from the Deputy PM’s Office.