Full Breakdown
North Macedonia Pushes for Expanded Partnership with Israel
8/29/2026, 1:15:42 AM
Background & Context
North Macedonia has elevated ties with Israel to a foreign-policy priority under Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski.
Agreements Signed and Cooperation Areas
During a 24-hour visit to Jerusalem, Mucunski met Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. The two ministers signed two cooperation agreements covering education, culture and sports, and tasked their teams with exploring further projects in water management, agriculture, investment and defense. Discussions also focused on establishing a direct air link between Tel Aviv and Skopje or the tourist city of Ohrid, and on expanding joint defense-industry work. Mucunski highlighted North Macedonia’s position on two major European transport corridors as a potential gateway for Israeli businesses seeking European markets.
Official Statements & Responses
Mucunski pointed to Israel’s rapid medical response after the March 2025 nightclub fire in Kocani, where Israeli doctors performed surgeries alongside Macedonian staff, as proof of Israel’s willingness to assist. He added that the visit “will not be my last,” indicating expectations of continued high-level exchanges.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have had a very strong relationship with Israel, but also myself with Gideon, over the last few years,” — Timco Mucunski, foreign minister
- “North Macedonia has demonstrated its friendship by standing up to these attempts in the international arena,” — Gideon Sa’ar, foreign minister
- “Gideon Sa’ar was one of the first foreign ministers to call me,” — Timco Mucunski, foreign minister
- “They were performing surgery in our hospitals and helping our doctors with their experience and their in-depth knowledge, and helping to save the lives of many young individuals,” — Timco Mucunski, foreign minister
- “We can also be a gateway for Israelis who want to invest in a European market that hasn’t been fully utilized by the Israeli business community,” — Timco Mucunski, foreign minister
What’s Next
Mucunski expects additional visits to Israel and aims to finalize plans for a direct flight linking Tel Aviv with Skopje or Ohrid, a step he describes as essential for boosting tourism and business exchanges.
