A legal framework establishing direct regular and charter flights between Macedonia and the United States has been provided by an Open Skies air services agreement between the countries signed on Thursday in Skopje by the Minister of Transport and Communications Mile Janakieski and the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs, Philip Reeker.

By signing this agreement, conditions are created to start lobbying with airlines showing possible interest to launch flights between Macedonia and the U.S., according to the Minister.

"As soon as possible we shall start lobbying and stimulating airlines to highlight this possibility and first and foremost, the benefits offered by Macedonian airports. I expect interest to be shown, however it depends on the business logic and commercial aspect of establishing flights", Mr. Janakieski said after signing the agreement.

“The document”, he elaborated, “opens opportunities to expand Macedonia's aviation market, to improve bilateral ties and to advance passenger services.”

On his part, Mr. Reeker said that the U.S. international aviation policy was based on market competitiveness, whereas the agreement implied trust toward Macedonia.

According to the Secretary, the Open Sky agreement lifted all administrative obstacles for establishing an air connection between Macedonia and the United States.

"We want to do everything we can to strengthen the relations between the U.S. and Macedonia. By signing the agreement, we will boost the economic cooperation and bilateral ties, especially at times when the focus is on the economy, economic growth and reforms that are crucial", the U.S. diplomat stressed, adding that promoting the development of Macedonia was a long-term important priority for the U.S.

“An effective air transport, Mr. Reeker noted, “Is a precondition for developing the industrial, financial, trade and tourist sector. International air connections are the key for the transportation of passengers and goods. Studies show that 40% of global trade is carried out through air transportation.”

"Consequently, the message is clear, every country needs to create air connections in order to do trade," the Secretary concluded, adding that Macedonia has become one of the 90 open-sky partners of the United States.