Washington, 24th September 2011 (MIA) – World Bank will grant Macedonia a financial support this and the next two years in the amount of US$ 155 million for the realization of several crucial projects. IMF and World Bank assessed Macedonia as a country with sound economic policies. Achieved results as regards GDP growth, increase of the level of foreign direct investments and high growth of export are the three key areas that were positively assessed.
This was announced for MIA by Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Zoran Stavreski, who headed the Macedonian delegation at the IMF-World Bank Annual Meeting. He stressed that the support by the World Bank will be in the energy sector.
– In the course of 2012, activities related to the realization of Lukovo Pole Project will commence, a project supported with funds by the World Bank.
Realization of the project for construction of Stip-Nis Long Distance Power Line will commence even in the course of this year, implemented by AD MEPSO. In addition, funds will be provided for support of infrastructure projects for the municipalities, a project under which ten and so municipalities in the Republic of Macedonia, above all the ones in the poorer regions, will be provided funds for realization of investment projects as regards reconstruction of streets and street lighting, purchase of vehicles for public utility enterprises, etc., Vice Prime Minister Stavreski said.
I expect, he pointed out, to be extended financial support from the World Bank in the field of education as well, to the end of improving the quality of education so as to produce personnel demanded on the labour market, which is, certainly, one of the key elements to improve the competitiveness of the Macedonian economy. There will also be budget support aimed at implementing the reforms in several areas, so it is a matter of a sound financial package in the amount of at least US$ 155 million for the next two years.
At the Annual Meeting, IMF and World Bank high officials assessed Macedonia as a country with sound economic policies.
– Performance as regards GDP growth, level of increased foreign direct investments and high growth of export are the three key areas that were positively assess by the IMF and World Bank Missions to Macedonia, Vice Prime Minister Stavreski underlined.
Today, Macedonian delegation will meet banks’ representatives and representatives from both the International Financial Corporation and the World Bank. In addition, Plenary Session of IMF and World Bank Committee will be held, at which IMF Director/WB President will present their stands on the present economic situation in the world and the possible policies and solutions to overcome the challenges the global economy faces.
