Nikoloski asks German companies to lobby for solution for Macedonian hauliers

Transport Minister Aleksandar Nikoloski has urged German business partners to lobby urgently for a solution that would ease entry and exit for North Macedonian carriers after the European Union introduced stricter Schengen rules.

Nikoloski asked that a mechanism be found so that Macedonian drivers are not treated as tourists but recognised as professional hauliers, allowing smoother cross-border movement with Schengen-member states including Germany.

Background and mediation offer

The Macedonian-German Economic Association has offered to mediate between North Macedonia and Germany to resolve the problem related to the entry-and-exit system. The association said it is prepared to lobby for a prompt solution because of the close cooperation between the two countries.

Macedonian carriers have been facing difficulties for 11 months. The Government announced urgent measures, but so far bilateral agreements have been reached only with Switzerland and Croatia; with Romania it was agreed to issue permits instead of visas.

Nikoloski and officials hope that German companies and the Macedonian-German business community will help accelerate bilateral arrangements that adapt to the new EU requirements and reduce delays and costs for transport firms from North Macedonia.

Photo: press material from the event