Construction of the 400 kV Albania-North Macedonia interconnection line begins, Karakaçi: We deepen mutual cooperation
On the North Macedonian side, work has begun on the construction of the 400 kV Albania-North Macedonia line. Present at the ceremony to start the works, alongside the Macedonian Prime Minister, was also the Albanian Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, Enea Karakaçi, according to whom the project "is not simply an infrastructure project, but is clearly an investment in our common security, development and European integration."
In his speech on the occasion, among other things, Karakaci stated:
"The 400 kV Elbasan-Bitola line project is one of the most important links of the East-West Energy Corridor, an important part of Corridor VIII. It closes a historical gap in the regional network and creates a direct connection between our energy systems, significantly increasing the security of supply for both parties and serving as an instrument that guarantees the commitments of both countries for the regional and European integration of our markets, in addition to political integration into the European Union.
This line is not just a bilateral project. It is part of a broader vision, the VIII Energy Corridor, which connects Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania and further Italy. Through this corridor, we are building a new energy bridge between the East and the West of Europe.
By highly appreciating this project, we have invested intensively in the part of the line that passes through Albania and with pride, but not to compete, because it would not be the place, I can say that we have reached 80% of the works for the construction of the line in Albanian territory.
Meanwhile, in parallel with this project, Albania is also advancing in other strategic initiatives.
The new 400 kV line with Greece, currently in the study phase and supported by the European Union, will increase cross-border capacities and support the integration of large-scale renewable sources.
Another project of exceptional strategic importance is the Albania-Italy underwater interconnection, which aims to create a direct outlet to one of the largest markets of the European Union countries. This project will be key to avoiding the loss of energy produced from renewable sources and maximizing its economic value.
Through these investments, Albania is not just building transmission lines, we are building a more flexible, safer, more integrated and fully compliant energy system with European standards.
At the same time, we are strengthening our role as a transit country for the region's green energy. The new energy flows that will pass through our territory will connect production in the Eastern Balkans with the markets of Western Europe, thus creating a new development opportunity for the entire region.
This project is clear evidence that regional cooperation works. It is the result of a partnership between our countries, international financial institutions and technical partners, who have believed in the shared vision of our two countries.
Other important projects, not only in energy, but also in road and railway infrastructure, need our bilateral cooperation to move forward as quickly as possible.
The Albanian Government has been and will remain open and ready to strengthen and deepen cooperation, in mutual interest.
Let us continue on this path, with increased commitment to building a more sustainable, secure and prosperous future for all citizens."
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