USAID will help the country improve its economic competitiveness, reduce corruption and increase youth contribution in society through US$ 8,3 million, part of the Development Partnership Grant Agreement that the United States and North Macedonia signed on Thursday.

Finance Minister Fatmir Besimi and USAID Country Representative Erik Janowsky signed the agreement, according to which both sides are committed to cooperation in the attainment of the objectives, with the Government having the leading role in the process.

Minister Besimi said the agreement reaffirms the long-standing partnership with the United States, whereas the three key development goals correspond with the Government programme and the goals of the strategy for economic strengthening, accelerated and sustainable economic development.

“Last year we made historic progress in our Euro-Atlantic agenda by joining NATO as a full-fledged member. Now we are heading for a period that is crucial for the country’s future. This primarily concerns overcoming of the COVID-19 challenges for the economy but also continuation of the reform agenda for the purpose of creating a better system for a prosperous, strong and well-governed state that contributes to regional stability and has a European future,” noted Besimi.

The three priorities within the agreement have been established through broad consultations and are based on areas that will have the most lasting benefit.

“Your greatest challenge is corruption, one of the country’s greatest needs is economic growth and stability, and your greatest hope is your youth. Just as corruption undermines governance, it also sabotages economic competitiveness and subverts youth opportunities for the future,” said Ambassador Byrnes.

USAID’s Janowsky sees progress in the anti-corruption efforts in North Macedonia.

“This can be achieved by strengthening institutions and the work of civil society organizations, thus increase citizens’ expectations for accountability and transparency,” said Janowsky.