Macedonia's Prime Minister Christian Miccovski announces airline subsidies, cultural budget boost and patriotic reforms
Prime Minister Christian Miccovski said the government will continue subsidising airlines and opening new routes, aiming for 3.5 million air passengers by 2026 and noting a 30 % increase at Skopje airport. He confirmed talks with Wizz Air to maintain seasonal flights to Sardinia and Sicily and emphasised the goal of turning Macedonia into a regional transport hub.
Miccovski also revealed a 34 % rise in the culture budget for 2024, earmarking funds for capital projects such as the Tetovo library, Skopje’s Universal Hall, the Turkish Theatre and a new jazz venue. He stressed that spending should focus on infrastructure rather than transfers, citing past misuse of funds. Linking modern patriotism to development, Miccovski invoked the legacy of revolutionary Georgi Petrov, calling for stronger institutions, job creation, improved infrastructure, education, health care and anti‑corruption measures.
The announcements cover transport, cultural investment and broader reform aims aimed at boosting Macedonia’s economy and national identity.