Kosovo and North Macedonia continue to strengthen their bilateral relations, as reflected in the consistent growth of trade between the two countries.

Prime Minister Albin Kurti emphasized this progress during the joint government meeting held in Pristina, stating, “The positive relations between our two countries are evident in the continuous increase in trade, which reached over 432 million euros in 2023. Additionally, the trade exchange has grown significantly, with Kosovo’s exports to North Macedonia rising from 44 million euros in the pre-pandemic year to 121 million euros last year.”

Kurti also noted that over 50 agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed between the two countries, expanding their cooperation, though full implementation is still needed.

North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski also spoke about economic cooperation, saying, “This year, our economic collaboration will exceed half a billion euros. In the years ahead, we expect even greater cooperation, which will bring benefits to both our countries. I am pleased that, through the Berlin Process, we signed agreements to form a common market, a vital mechanism for all of us, now valued at 17-18 million euros.”

Mickoski also discussed agreements related to energy and border crossings, stating, “I will be pleased if, in a few weeks, we can open a border crossing point to facilitate the movement of goods and citizens. Regarding energy, we can collaborate as nations.”

The two governments have signed a protocol to implement agreements on the movement of citizens at two border points, as well as memoranda of understanding on energy cooperation and education.

/k.s/