Greece, North Macedonia sign gas link agreement

Greece and North Macedonia signed an agreement yesterday for the construction of a pipeline that will connect the two countries’ natural gas grids. The agreement was signed by Environment and Energy Minister Kostas Skrekas and North Macedonia’s Economy Minister Kreshnik Bekteshi in the presence of Prime Minister of North Macedonia Zoran Zaev, US Ambassador in Greece Geoffrey Pyatt and the chief executive officer of the Hellenic Gas Transmission System Operator (DESFA), Maria Rita Galli. In statements afterward, Skrekas said that the pipeline between the two countries will enhance Greece’s geopolitical role as a hub for the supply of the region with natural gas, increasing security of supply for North Macedonia by a diversification of supply sources and assisting in the decarbonization of its economy. The pipeline will be 123 kilometers long, linking to Greece’s gas grid at Nea Mesimvria and with North Macedonia at Negotino. It will be able to transport

1.5 billion cubic meters a year with the possibility of doubling that amount, while the size of the investment is expected to reach 110 million euros. The final investment decision is expected to be taken by early 2022, at the latest. Bekteshi said the signing of the agreement was a historic moment after many years of efforts, adding that the project will enhance energy supply diversification, security and stability for the entire region.