The ambassador noted that the development of Corridor 8 has not only economic but also clear geopolitical significance, as it improves the mobility, security, and sustainability of the region.
US Ambassador to North Macedonia Angela Aggeler emphasized the strategic importance of Corridor 8 and regional connectivity, including with Bulgaria, in an open letter to the citizens of the country on the occasion of the end of her three-year term in Skopje. In her message, she identified infrastructure projects and good-neighborly cooperation as the basis for security, economic growth, and European integration.
Aggeler reminded that 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral relations between the US and North Macedonia, highlighting the tangible results of the partnership in recent years. Among them, she highlighted the progress on the largest infrastructure project in the country’s history, which will open strategic corridors 8 and 10 and strengthen regional security and trade between neighboring countries.
Corridor 8, which connects the Adriatic and Black Seas through North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania, was identified as a key element for closer economic integration and strengthening ties within NATO. The ambassador noted that the development of this corridor has not only economic but also clear geopolitical significance, as it improves the mobility, security, and sustainability of the region.
In her letter, Aggeler also drew attention to North Macedonia’s commitment as a serious NATO ally, including through the fulfillment of defense spending targets and participation in multinational military exercises. She stressed that the infrastructure connecting the country with Bulgaria and other allies is an integral part of collective security.
Emphasis was also placed on efforts to uphold the rule of law, fight corruption, and create economic opportunities to keep young people in the country. The ambassador highlighted cooperation in areas such as energy, transport, technology, and cultural heritage preservation, emphasizing that progress in these areas is directly linked to regional connectivity and good neighborly relations.
Aggeler expressed gratitude for the open dialogue, including on difficult topics, and for the shared hopes and vision for the country’s future. She stressed that the United States consistently supports North Macedonia’s path to full Euro-Atlantic integration and closer cooperation with its neighbors, including Bulgaria.
“The United States will ALWAYS be by your side, believing, as so many of you believe, in the dream of a stronger, more prosperous, more secure, and fully integrated Euro-Atlantic partner and ally,” the ambassador emphasized.
In conclusion, she sent a message of hope and confidence that through infrastructure links such as Corridor 8, dialogue, and regional cooperation, North Macedonia can overcome any obstacle on its path to a stable and European future. | BGNES