United Macedonian Diaspora , 19.07.2011

July 15, 2011 – Washington, D.C. – The United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD), who has been a strong proponent of the United States and Macedonia entering into an Open-Skies aviation agreement, applauds the announcement by U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood that both countries have signed an Open-Skies aviation agreement. Macedonia became the 103rd United States Open-Skies partner. U.S. and Macedonian officials signed an Open-Skies aviation agreement that will allow free aircraft travel to, from, and over each country’s territory. Airlines may independently decide on flight patterns, destinations, and prices for passenger and cargo services.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood commented, “By agreeing on an open market for aviation services now, we are setting the stage for travel and trade between the United State and Macedonia to develop in the future. We welcome Macedonia as an Open-Skies partner.”

“UMD applauds the U.S.-Macedonia Open-Skies aviation agreement as an important step forward in advancing U.S.-Macedonia relations. The resulting trading and travel opportunities will strengthen ties between Americans and Macedonians and further globalize Macedonia’s economy,” said UMD President Metodija A. Koloski. “We praise the U.S. Departments of State and Transportation and the Macedonian aviation authorities for taking the leadership in making such an Agreement possible.”

UMD strongly believes this Open-Skies Agreement will bring greater tourism opportunities to Macedonia for American tourists, and make it easier for Americans of Macedonian heritage to travel to Macedonia, and for Macedonians to travel to the U.S.

The U.S. and Macedonia established full diplomatic relations on September 13, 1995. On November 4, 2004, the U.S. officially recognized Macedonia under her constitutional name, the Republic of Macedonia, currently used by 132 countries worldwide. On May 7, 2008, both countries signed a Declaration of Strategic Partnership and Cooperation, in which they pledged “to expand and deepen the close partnership between the two countries based upon common goals, interests, and values.”

For U.S. Department of State press release, please visit: http://www.state.gov

For U.S. Department of Transportation press release, please visit:http://www.state.gov