Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Zoran Stavreski, as co-chairman of the Intergovernmental Macedonian-Russian Commission for Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, held the Commission’s Fourth Session in Moscow Tuesday.
 
At the session, Macedonian Delegation submitted Initiative for conclusion of Free Trade Agreement with the Russian Federation. Such Agreement would boost Macedonian export, especially of vine, fruit, vegetables, etc. It is expected for the Russian side to respond to the initiative as soon as possible.
 
Second important issue discussed at the session is in the area of energy, i.e. increase of quantities of gas Russia supplies to Macedonia within the project for construction of gas pipeline network. During the meeting, it was agreed for operational teams from both countries to start preparing specific project for part of the gas pipeline network to be financed on the basis of the clearing debt.
 
Both parties expressed their contentment from the increased number of Russian tourists in Macedonia in 2010, as a result of the presentation of Macedonia as a tourist destination in the Russian media. It is expected for over 1,000 Russian tourist to visit Macedonia next year. Hence, 12 charter flights from Russia are planned in 2011, which will contribute to the development of airline relations between both countries.
 
During the Fourth Session of the Mixed Commission, Vice Prime Minister Zoran Stavreski also signed Agreement for Trade, Economic, Scientific-Technical and Cultural Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Macedonia and the Moscow Region of the Russian Federation. This Agreement will boost export of Macedonian products, and it will provide for better opportunities for investments in the country in this area.
