Skopje, 11 July 2024 (MIA) - The visit of the government delegation led by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski to the United States also has a bilateral character in addition to participation in the NATO Summit, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Timcho Mucunski told national broadcaster MTV, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release.

Mucunski points out that bilateral relations with special emphasis on economic cooperation were in the focus of the first days of the visit to the United States.

"Prime Minister Mickoski announced a new investment, which is one of the first major economic successes of the new Government. "Wabtec" will invest an additional EUR 35 million, creating 100 new jobs in the country," said Mucunski, noting that the decision was made during the visit to Washington.

He also mentioned numerous meetings with influential congressmen, discussing strengthening of the strategic partnership with the United States, as well as the country's role on the international stage.

"The meetings reasserted the country's role as an affirmed member of the NATO Alliance, which continuously contributes to strengthening the overall transatlantic security. It was also emphasized that the new Macedonian Government supports and will continue the policy of 100% alignment with the common EU foreign and security policy, which is significant for the stability of the country and the region," said Mucunski. 

As regards the expansion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the department of foreign trade, the head of diplomacy says a different focus is needed in foreign policy.

"Activities for the protection and promotion of political interests should be deepened with a concept that is much more than economic diplomacy. Promoting exports, but also promoting the country as a good location for new direct investments will be a big challenge, which we can handle to make the country a better place to live in," Mucunski pointed out. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade added that in the coming period within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through a transparent and legal procedure, all necessary steps will be taken to detect possible omissions and errors in the operation of diplomatic and consular offices, primarily those where serious doubts exist about inappropriate behaviour, outside the legal acts and by-laws, with the ultimate goal of transparent operation and protection of the reputation of the state.

Mucunski notes that a series of meetings and activities are to come with a focus on the country's contribution to strengthening the NATO Alliance, as well as deepening bilateral relations and cooperation with the United States.

Mucunski is part of the government delegation headed by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski in visit to the United States on the 75th anniversary of the NATO Alliance. 

Photo: print screen