Skopje, 23 June 2024 (MIA) - The Parliament's session on the election of the new government, proposed by PM-designate Hristijan Mickoski, is to resume on Sunday, and the vote shall take place at the end of the debate and not later than 24.00 hours (midnight). The Government shall be elected if the majority of the total number of Members of the Assembly voted for it.

The parliamentary majority expected to back the new government in the legislative house includes 78 MPs - 58 from the VMRO-DPMNE coalition, 14 from the 'Worth It' coalition and six from the ZNAM Movement.

The 2024-2028 government program, submitted to the Parliament by PM-designate Hristijan Mickoski, is presented in six pillars on over 60 pages. The main goal, as stated, is restoring trust in state institutions, eliminating corruption and ensuring the rule of law, as well as economic recovery with the aim of creating productive and well-paid jobs. 

The first pillar - a quality standard of living and a new cycle of economic growth, is focused on stable public finances, support for a competitive private sector, support for innovation and the ICT sector, announcing productive and high-paid jobs, as well as a national plan for demography. It stands for developed agriculture and developed and functional infrastructure and energy sector in the service of the state.

"Our goal is to create productive and well-paid jobs, reduce unemployment and foster an environment where businesses can flourish. Through strategic investments in infrastructure and energy, we will improve the quality of life of all citizens and ensure sustainable development," reads the government program.

The second pillar - anti-corruption front, focuses on reform of the judicial system and systemic fight against corruption. 

"The laws will be applied equally to all citizens, regardless of their ethnic, religious, gender and other affiliation. The government will offer new systemic solutions to transform judicial bodies in truly independent, transparent, responsible and efficient entities that are the foundation of a normal democratic society. It will commit to freeing the judiciary from the constraints of the executive power and implementing policies to clear up the conflict of interest in the judiciary, the nepotism, partisanship and cronyism," the government program notes. 

The third pillar – rule of law in institutions, includes reforms in the political system and public administration, accessible public services – "Smart Macedonia", as well as developed local self-governments and balanced regional development. 

"The government will promote a policy of understanding and cooperation in the process of democratic reform, advocating the principle of "national consensus". We will strive to achieve as comprehensive a political consensus as possible in the conduct of politics during the creation and implementation of projects and policies with long-term significance and value for the state," it adds.  

The fourth pillar – functional institutional system, highlights a quality health system and education for the future, clean environment, social care and dedicated care for pensioners. 

"Education and health are at the heart of our agenda. We will implement reforms to improve the quality and availability of education, preparing citizens for the challenges of the modern world. Our health system will be strengthened to provide high-quality care for every citizen. We will focus on social cohesion, supporting families, promoting equal opportunities and protecting the rights and freedoms of all individuals," notes the agenda. 

The fifth pillar – national priorities, outlines the priorities in foreign policy, security and defence, culture as a pillar of the state, as well as developed tourism and sports as national pride.

"Our commitment to European integration remains firm. We will work diligently to align our policies with European standards, promoting our goal of full-fledged membership in the European Union. This approach will bring stability, economic growth and enhanced international cooperation, ensuring a better future for citizens," the 2024-2028 government program reads. 

The sixth pillar – rights and freedoms, puts women at the centre of Macedonian society and young people in focus, free and independent media, as well as support for the civil society sector and government transparency and accountability.

"Culture and tourism are of vital importance for the Macedonian national identity and economic prosperity. We will invest in the development of cultural infrastructure, support the arts and promote the rich heritage both at home and internationally. By improving our tourism offering and improving the visitors' experience, we will attract more tourists, strengthen local economies and showcase the beauty and diversity of our country. The development of sports is key to fostering national pride and promoting healthy living. Sports will be a key element in building community spirit and providing opportunities for our young people," notes the government program.

Photo: MIA archive