Skopje, 21 July 2022 (MIA) – Construction of the Skopje – Blace highway, as well as implementation of projects for energy connection will contribute to the development of both countries and increasing mutual economic cooperation, Minister of Finance Fatmir Besimi and Ambassador of Kosovo to North Macedonia Florian Qehaja concluded at a meeting Thursday. “These are strategic infrastructure projects that are of great importance for the development of our countries. The Skopje – Blace highway has been partially funded with a grant from the Western Balkan Investment Framework, and that will be the case in the future, as a member state of the EU. North Macedonia has started its accession negotiations for EU membership, and our experiences will pave the way for Kosovo,” Minister Besimi said. Earlier this month, an agreement was signed with the EBRD providing EUR 167.6 million from the EBRD for the construction of the second subdivision of the Skopje - Blace highway, the total value of which is EUR 194 million, said the Finance Ministry. “In addition to the funds provided by the EBRD, the project was also provided with an investment grant from the WBIF in the amount of EUR 20.82 million, then a EUR 5.68 million grant for technical assistance, also from the WBIF, and a EUR 0.35 million grant from the EBRD for the development of a national strategy for e-mobility and an action plan for road infrastructure,” stated the press release. The first section of the highway, from the border with Kosovo to the village of Blace, is expected to be completed by September. The State Road Public Enterprise is using its own funds for the construction and financing. dk/ba/