Skopje, 16 May 2025 (MIA) — On the sidelines of the European Political Community Summit in Tirana, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski is set to meet with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer and finalize a strategic partnership agreement between the two countries, government sources told MIA.

The document is the result of months of intense talks between diplomats and experts from both countries, the sources said. 

The agreement, which is said to be historic, will open new perspectives for cooperation in key areas such as security, economy, investments, education, digital transformation and climate change. 

"This is an agreement that positions Macedonia in the broader circle of interests of one of the leading world powers," the sources said, adding that the deal to be signed was "a concrete and long-term commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with the United Kingdom."

"By signing the agreement, Macedonia will gain access to British expertise, financial support for reforms and opportunities for British investments in strategic sectors such as energy, infrastructure and innovation," the sources said.

Future cooperation should also include stronger political dialogue as well as coordination within international institutions in dealing with global security challenges.

Details about the agreement will be released later Friday.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Mickoski met with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama.

"With Prime Minister Rama in Tirana, we had an exceptionally constructive and friendly conversation, filled with mutual respect and a desire for progress," Mickoski wrote in a social media post.

"We are firmly walking together on the path to the European Union, dedicated to the future we are building through partnership, dialogue and common values," he wrote.

The 6th summit of the European Political Community brings together 47 heads of state and government from Europe. 

The Macedonian prime minister said the summit aimed to promote regional cooperation, stability and closer ties with the EU, highlighting the importance of acting despite the challenges facing Europe.

"In the open discussion, views were exchanged on key topics for strengthening the region's connection with the rest of Europe," Mickoski wrote in a social media post.

"Our attendance and participation in this summit is a confirmation of our commitment to active participation in European processes and building a stable and prosperous neighborhood," he added. mr/