English
The new mobile operator in Macedonia, “4iG,” will utilize the “Starlink” satellite network owned by billionaire Elon Musk, stated Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Aleksandar Nikoloski this evening on the program “360 Degrees”. When asked whether the telecommunications company “4iG” is building its own 5G network, Nikoloski explained that they have already announced a strategic partnership, noting that Macedonia will be among the first countries where this technology is implemented directly. Regarding the potential risk of Musk cutting off access—as occurred in Ukraine—the Minister clarified that this is a purely commercial agreement.
“They have already announced a partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink; Macedonia and Montenegro will be the first countries where Starlink is used directly—meaning the mobile network, as well as the internet network, will run via Starlink. Currently, based on what I know, they are leasing base stations, but once testing is complete, they will transition directly to Starlink—that is, to Elon Musk’s satellites. You would agree that this represents a significant leap for Macedonia within this major technological race. I do not believe he would take such an action within the context of a commercial agreement.” “In that regard—and I believe Secretary Rubio explained this as well—we are talking about a state-run military component, whereas the commercial side is something entirely different,” said Nikoloski.
When asked whether the checks announced by the Hungarian government are affecting the investment plans of “4iG” in the country, Nikoloski pointed out that the operator has until March 2027 to provide coverage in at least one city. He noted that they chose Skopje specifically, which demonstrates their serious intent.
“Under the concession agreement, they are required to provide coverage in at least one city in the country by March of next year, and to be operational nationwide by the end of the year. They could have chosen any city, but they selected Skopje. The fact that they chose Skopje as the first city to cover—which, in terms of communications, likely accounts for over 50% of the entire national market—speaks volumes about how serious they are,” Nikoloski emphasized.
He reiterated that he expects a reduction in prices for telecommunication services. “I believe prices will drop drastically; based on the information I have, their services will be significantly cheaper than those offered by the two existing operators. I mentioned this on one occasion, back when we were discussing the introduction of a third mobile operator: whether or not a third mobile operator enters the Macedonian market actually depends on the two existing operators.” “To their detriment—though, hopefully, to the benefit of the market—they left ample room for a third mobile operator,” Nikoloski pointed out.
Relations with Hungary, he noted, remain strong; this is evidenced by the recent visit of the Acting Hungarian Ambassador to Macedonia to the site where construction on the Bukojčani–Kičevo highway began. He added that investments are proceeding according to the planned schedule.
“I am pleased that the Acting Ambassador to Macedonia attended the commencement of construction on the Kičevo–Bukojčani section and that the Hungarian Embassy officially issued a statement of congratulations and support for the project. In diplomatic circles, it is well understood that an embassy cannot take such a step on its own—it requires coordination with its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Our offices are in communication, and I expect to meet with the Minister of Transport soon. I know him very well; he previously served as State Secretary and was a candidate for Mayor of Budapest—I even participated in his campaign—so I anticipate that we will meet before long,” Nikoloski stated.