Vice-Premier Zoran Stavreski on Saturday [ 14 July] in Bitola set formally into work a 400kW line that connects the power supply systems of Macedonia and Greece.

Construction of two other power lines would start soon, connecting Macedonian town of Stip with Bulgaria and Serbia, Stavreski said.

In this manner, Macedonia is opening its transmission system, connecting with the countries of the region, which will bring energy stability to the country, he added.

Energy is crucial for economic development. We have launched an investment cycle of Euro 1.5 billion, expecting Macedonia from an importer to become exporter of electric power in three, four years, Stavreski said.

The line of 35.3 kilometres is worth Euro 6.5 million.

The line will boost the transborder cooperation in the region. Therefore, we have been supporting these projects, Greek representative Evangelos Lekacas said.

(c) 2007 BBC Monitoring European.

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