Italian companies are interested in infrastructure and energy investments in Macedonia, promising IPA funds' support in the projects.

Minister of Transport and Communications Mile Janakieski and Skopje Mayor Koce Trajanovski presented project details in the related fields before 30 Italian companies at a forum organized by the Italian Trade Agency.

Minister Janakieski said the key projects for investments and cooperation with Italian businessmen were the concession agreements on motorway sections Gostivar-Kicevo and Skopje-Blace, as well as the Skopje region gasification.

"We need Italy's support in obtaining funds for construction of Corridor 8 and making it a priority for the European Commission", he added.

According to Janakieski, Italian companies can take part at the call for construction of 250km-long primary gas distribution network, which is open until May 26.

"I expect enormous interest of companies from Europe and beyond. The concession covers a 20-year period", he said.

Italian Ambassador to Macedonia Ernesto Massimo Bellelli stressed Macedonia was a developing country, offering favorable opportunities and tax policy.

"We have decided to focus on infrastructure and energy, sectors in which Macedonia is investing a lot. Italy will help Macedonia in increasing the use of IPA transport funds", said Ambassador Bellelli.