Skopje, 28 October 2025 (MIA) – Today from Skopje, we send a message that sustainable energy is not a political choice, but a moral obligation to future generations. Energy is the heart of the economy, and if that heart beats steadily, the whole system lives on. Maintaining that rhythm is our shared responsibility, but also our greatest opportunity, said Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski in his address at Tuesday’s opening of the 14th International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development (IFESD-14) titled "From Goals to Action: Powering the Future with Sustainable Energy"

According to the Prime Minister, every investment in clean energy is an investment in life, health, stability, and progress.

“Every new technology we introduce, every kilowatt we produce without polluting, is a step towards an economy that will power the future. Our aim isn’t only to fulfill international goals. Our aim is to create an economy of the future: intelligent, digital, green, and resilient,” Mickoski said.

Mickoski expressed his satisfaction that Skopje is the host of IFESD-14 which he said brings together the greatest minds, visionaries, and practicians from over 70 countries.

“This is a moment of pride, but also a moment of responsibility. I am proud that today Macedonia is the center of the global debate on the future of energy. And I am even prouder that the world looks at us not as a small country, but as a serious partner that actively shapes the agenda for sustainable development. The fact that this global discussion is being led here in Skopje demonstrates that the regional energy future can and should be built precisely here, in our country,” Mickoski said.

The Prime Minister highlighted the forum as a chance for the country to show that despite being small in terms of size, it can have a big impact when it has a clear vision, determination, and leadership.

Mickoski underscored that energy is high on the country’s agenda, not as a technical issue, but as a national priority and state strategy.

“The energy transition seemed out of reach, expensive, slow. But we are making it possible. Every solar panel, every wind turbine, every new power plant working on clean energy is a part of our modern fight for independence,” Mickoski said.

He noted that the world is changing at a rapid pace, and what once meant a reliable supplier today means a flexible system, a resilient market, and clean energy sources.

“Energy stability is no longer just an economic issue, it is also an issue of security. Global turbulence reminds us that energy independence is a prerequisite for economic freedom. And without freedom, there is no development, there is no stability, there is no dignity,” the PM added.

The Prime Minister said the government firmly backs the reforms being implemented by the Ministry of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources and is establishing the link between politics and vision.

“Our vision is clear, to prepare the country for the future, for climate challenges, for technological changes and for global risks, to create a regional example of a stable, clean, and energy-independent economy. We know that this requires time, resources, and persistence. But, above all, it demands belief in our own strength,” Mickoski said, adding that the transition is not only technological – it is mental, value-based, and civilizational.

In his address, the Prime Minister touched upon the government’s steps in investing in renewable energy sources.

“We established clear regulatory frameworks. We built energy interconnectors with our neighboring countries. We launched energy efficiency programs in the public and private sectors. Solar and wind parks are being constructed – projects that just a decade ago were a vision on paper. Today, they are a reality, part of the grid that powers the future. In parallel, we are investing in human capital, because we know that energy doesn’t come only from nature, but also from the people who create it, innovate it, and dream it,” Mickoski said.

Mickoski stressed that global crises should not be seen as obstacles, but as catalysts for new solutions, urging a path forward through vision, knowledge, and partnerships.

“So, let this conference not end with words, but with action. Let us turn the energy in this hall into concrete steps. Steps of investment, joint projects, and a network of trust and results. I believe that what begins today in Skopje will be the spark that strengthens cooperation among countries and leads us towards a cleaner, stronger, and more just energy future,” Mickoski underscored.

Photo: MIA