Visit of USAID Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia Affirms North Macedonia Relationship

Skopje, North Macedonia: November 15, 2023 – USAID Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia, Ambassador Erin Elizabeth McKee, arrived in North Macedonia November 13 following a visit to Athens, Greece during which she signed a Memorandum of Understanding of the Southeast Europe Energy Market Coupling with the Government of Greece. This initiative will advance collaboration between energy institutions in Greece, Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo to integrate their electricity markets to create a more connected and energy secure region.

The purpose of her visit to the region included promoting USAID's Energy Bridge, a significant initiative aimed at enhancing European energy security by connecting partners in the region to American investors, technology, and expertise. Additionally, she gained insights into key issues in North Macedonia related to EU accession. Ambassador McKee's diplomatic engagements addressed crucial components of the USAID Europe and Eurasia Strengthening the Foundations of Freedom strategic framework, which encompasses critical areas such as energy security, cybersecurity, economic integration, and anti-corruption measures.

USAID’s assistance and partnership with North Macedonia over the last thirty years has contributed to significant development gains. The path to Euro Atlantic integration requires political will; strong governing institutions, grounded in durable connections to citizens, empowering partner countries to regain momentum on their development paths. The United States will stand by the people and government of North Macedonia as it seeks to deepen and sustain this moment for democratic revival.

The American people, through USAID, have invested more than $840 million in North Macedonia since 1993. USAID is the world’s premier international development agency and a catalytic actor driving development results. USAID’s work advances U.S. national security and economic prosperity, demonstrates American generosity, and promotes a path to recipient self-reliance and resilience.