The construction of Corridor VIII, a pan-European project of strategic importance, seems to be experiencing delays in North Macedonia.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has stated that the works will be postponed at least until July, due to restrictions in UNESCO-protected areas near Lake Ohrid and archaeological discoveries.
This statement has brought different reactions, both in North Macedonia and in the region, while the Albanian political factor itself appears to be divided in its attitudes regarding this issue.
“There is talk about UNESCO, but no one has so far presented anything concrete about UNESCO’s remarks. We are for their remarks to be examined, but not for UNESCO to be used as an alibi to interrupt a project that is of strategic interest,” said Faton Pollozhani.
“UNESCO does not have to be an obstacle for the Trebenisht-Struge-Qafë Thane segment because if you see the trajectory from which Corridor VIII moves, it is at least 1 km as the crow flies from the lake”, said Zijadin Sela, Alliance for Albanians.
On the other hand, the mayor of the municipality of Struga, Mendi Qyra, says that the project will continue and there is no decision to cancel it.
“There is nothing real about the decision made that it is not implemented. At the moment, it is not implemented due to a request from UNESCO, which seeks to find optimal forms to implement this project”, said Mendi Qyra, Mayor of the Municipality of Struga.
The following months are expected to show whether it is a temporary delay or a longer slowdown of this project.
Journalist Eftjola Fili
