6th August 2026, Skopje - The Government, with the support of the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, is providing for implementation of Rail Corridor VIII - Phase 3, section Kriva Palanka to the Bulgarian border, through a new financial scheme. Today, Minister of Finance, Gordana Dimitrieska‑Kochoska, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Aleksandar Nikoloski, Director of Macedonian Railways Infrastructure, Sinisha Ivanovski, EBRD Country Head for North Macedonia, Fatih Turkmenoglu, and Head of EIB Office in Skopje, Björn Gabriel signed amendments to the finance contracts, the Grant Agreement and the Project Agreement.
“By signing today’s amendments to the finance contracts and the Grant Agreement, a financial scheme has been put into place to secure the full implementation of Rail Corridor VIII - Phase 3, section Kriva Palanka to the Bulgarian border. This Project will not only enhance connectivity between the Adriatic and the Black Sea, but will also foster greater economic integration, ensure smooth movement of people and goods, and open new opportunities for development of the Macedonian economy and the region as a whole,” the Minister stated at the signing ceremony, which was also attended by Prime Minister, Hristijan Mickoski.
The Minister emphasized that this paves the way for smooth continuation of the implementation of one of the country's most significant infrastructure projects.
“The funds for the implementation of the third section have been secured with the support of our longstanding partners, the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. These institutions have been among the most significant supporters of development projects in our country for years, investing in transport infrastructure, energy, water supply, while also providing support for the private sector,” the Minister noted.
She added that the Government is unquestionably committed to the implementation of strategic infrastructure projects and recalled that, over the past two years, intensive actions have been taken to accelerate the pace of implementation of previously stalled projects, as well as to launch new investments that contribute to improved living conditions, economic development, and progress in the EU integration process.
By pointing out that under the adopted Supplementary Budget, funding allocated to capital expenditures has been increased by 14.3%, she noted that these investments translate into boosted competitiveness of Macedonian economy, better regional connectivity, new business opportunities, and a higher standard of living for citizens.
“We remain committed to the accomplishment of these objectives, while safeguarding the public finance stability. This very approach, based on accountable public finance management in place, securing funds for capital investments and building a strong partnership with international financial institutions, creates the foundation for sustainable economic growth, boosted competitiveness, and faster integration of our country into European transport and economic networks,” Minister of Finance, Gordana Dimitrieska‑Kochoska pointed out.
