Vice Premier and Finance Minister Zoran Stavreski attends Friday the formal start of construction of Russian corridor for gas transfer South Stream, in Anapa, Russia.

"South Stream is a significant project for Europe, but also for the Republic of Macedonia. I am satisfied that we succeeded in our efforts to include the country in the project since the very beginning. We are here at the cornerstone-laying ceremony and we will be involved in all stages of the project's realization", said FinMin Stavreski.

He added the project would secure stable gas supply and the country's energy future.

"This project is significant for the future, since the economy and households will be supplied with gas over the next 30-40 years. Republic of Macedonia secures its future, secures stable supply and is part of the main international gas corridor that supplies the whole of Europe", stressed Stavreski.

The South Stream pipeline will transport Russian natural gas through the Black Sea to Bulgaria and then further to Italy and Austria, transiting several Balkan countries on its way. The project is scheduled for completion in 2015.

Macedonia officially joined South Stream through the draft-agreement submitted by Russia in July.