Skopje, 22 December 2025 (MIA) - Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said Monday the Government is not against an increase of the minimum wage and noted that the executive is committed to continued rise in salaries and proper valuation of labor, while adding that an increase of the minimum wage should be agreed by workers and employers through social dialogue and based on real economic parameters.

"Today's session of the Economic-Social Council reaffirms our joint commitment - to solve key economic and social issues through dialogue, partnership and mutual responsibility. This Council is not a formality but the foundation of social cohesion and stability in the country, a place where interests of workers, employers and the Government meet in order to build a sustainable and fair economy," PM Mickoski said in remarks before the Economic-Social Council.

He told the Council session that the Government wants to create a stronger economy that opens new jobs and ensures a decent standard of life for all citizens.

"Our goal is clear - a stronger economy that creates value, opens new jobs and ensures a decent standard of life for every citizen. The economic growth we are building must be inclusive and fair, and the results of this growth must be felt by workers but also ensure stability and competitiveness for businesses. In this context, the minimum wage issue is extremely important and sensitive," said Mickoski.

He said the Government is not against an increase of the minimum wage while adding that the rise must be agreed between workers and employers.

"Let me be clear: the Government is not against an increase of the minimum wage. We are committed to rising salaries and proper valuation of labor. We also firmly believe that such an increase must come as a result of an agreement between workers and employers, through social dialogue and based on real economic parameters. This rise must also consider the economic potentials and capacities. I am not in favor of imposed solutions. Next year will be one of a fight for a better standard of life," noted Mickoski.

According to him, a sustainable wage increase is not achieved by administrative decisions taken overnight but through a strong and productive economy.

"That is why in parallel with the discussions on the minimum wage, we must work on increasing productivity, support for businesses, investments in technology, innovations and human capital. This is the only way to create conditions in which salaries would permanently rise without endangering jobs or competitiveness of businesses," said Mickoski.

The PM said the Government would continue to be an active and responsible partner in this process.

"We will support all solutions that are fair, economically viable and agreed through consensus. We don't want to score short-term political points but see long-term stability, predictability and an economy that can endure through the current challenges. I believe that by way of sincere dialogue, mutual respect and a common vision, we can reach solutions that ensure a better standard for citizens and a healthy business environment for employers. This is the path to a stronger economy and a safer future for our country," underlined Mickoski.

Photo: Government