Mickoski: Government remains committed to building data centers
Mickoski says the government has not received any EU notification cancelling funding for a national data centre and links the plan to AI and economic growth.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said the Government will not abandon the plan to build national data centers, arguing that humanity is moving in that direction and the process is irreversible. He added that the Government has not received any letter from the European Union stating it had withdrawn financing or a grant for the national data center; "If such a thing arrives, then we will be able to comment on it," he said.
Mickoski made the remarks during a visit to the Tabanovce border crossing on 14 September 2026, responding to questions about reports that the EU had notified Western Balkan countries it would no longer prioritise funding national data centers as part of the reform agenda.
Addressing political opponents, Mickoski asked rhetorically whether the country wants to remain "stuck in the 19th and 20th century with some retro-political forces" or move toward the future. "This Government absolutely takes care of the interests of the state and the citizens. The interests of the state and the citizens will never be put into question. We absolutely care about the future of this state and rapid economic development," he said.
On artificial intelligence and infrastructure
Mickoski also linked the data center plan to developments in artificial intelligence, noting that thanks to such infrastructure and AI "we could see how much of that equipment at the Tabanovce border crossing operates." He added: "In fact, without that artificial intelligence and some data centers I would not be communicating with you today in the way I am communicating."
The government’s position was put to the European Union ambassador in Skopje, Michalis Rokas, who said he could not confirm the claim. "I regret that I cannot confirm your information. As you already know, 'Vezilka' was put into use, that is, into operation two months ago. It is to be linked to the larger data centre in the Hellenic Republic, so until now I really have not received any information regarding your assertion," Rokas replied briefly.
Mickoski reiterated the Government’s commitment to pursue digital infrastructure as part of its development priorities while saying any formal communication from the EU would be examined and addressed if received.
Photo: press material from the event
