Aleksandar Nikoloski shifts stance on transport protests

North Macedonian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Aleksandar Nikoloski has shifted his stance regarding potential protests by transport companies. While Nikoloski personally supported border blockades in January as a necessary warning to the European Union, he now states that such protests are ‘not the best solution.’

The current tension stems from the challenges faced by regional carriers regarding their stay in the Schengen zone. Nikoloski suggested that potential upcoming protests in September may have political motivations driven by a neighboring country, though he did not name the nation explicitly. He emphasized that North Macedonia should pursue individual bilateral agreements rather than regional collective action.

The government is currently seeking solutions through bilateral deals with countries where Macedonian carriers frequently transit or operate. Agreements have already been established with Croatia, Switzerland, and Romania, with ongoing or expected discussions involving Austria, Hungary, Germany, and Slovenia to facilitate smoother transit for transport companies.