Hristijan Mickoski details U.S. visit and economic goals

North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has detailed the outcomes of his recent diplomatic visit to the United States. A key focus of the trip was economic cooperation, specifically discussions with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) regarding potential funding for national projects, such as the Čebren and Gallishte energy projects.

Mickoski also addressed his presence at the United Nations, stating that North Macedonia chose to remain in the hall during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech, rather than walking out in protest. He characterized walking out as an “escape from reality” and argued for more substantive ways to manifest protest.

Domestically, Mickoski emphasized his government's focus on economic growth, noting a 4.3 percent real growth in the second quarter of the year. He also addressed regional political shifts in Europe, including trends in Germany and France, as indicators for shaping national policy.

However, the opposition party SDSM has criticized the trip, alleging that Mickoski was “isolated” and failed to receive an invitation to a reception hosted by Donald Trump in New York, contrasting his absence with the attendance of other regional leaders.