Over MKD 380 million (EUR 6,3 million) of viniculture subsidies have been paid, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Supply Ljupco Dimovski said after Friday's vine pruning in the Tikves region.

"It is a pleasure that vine growers can take their money on this day, St.Trifun", said Dimovski.

According to him, viniculture is becoming one of the strategic sectors of Macedonia's agriculture.

"Efforts over the past 4-5 years have resulted in consolidation of the situation in the viniculture sector. There are over 190,000 tones of grapes in domestic capacities, whereas smaller quantities have been exported", said Minister Dimovski.

Minister Dimovski was accompanied by Croatian counterpart Tihomir Jakovina, who is paying a visit to Macedonia.

"There is room for enhancement of partnership and joint projects in third countries. Croatia is prepared to help Macedonia on its path to the EU, sharing experiences over viniculture development strategies", said Jakovina.