Nis - Pristina road of regional importance

(Photo: Aleksandar Parezanović)

At the recent meeting in Berlin, Serbian Prime Minister again suggested to build the Nis-Pristina highway. EU support is expected in the project implementation. Pristina sees the direction as economic and strategically important for the entire region.

The Nis-Pristina highway is a chance for the ones who have been operating for almost 20 years in trade with companies from central Serbia. Goods way would thus be the shortest.

The Pristina-Drac highway was completed. Still, economy is unanimous – either direction towards Albanian coast or the one being built towards Macedonia will get the real importance when connected to Corridor 10.

- Transport costs are one of the main factors in product cost price. Isn’t it the main indicator it affects the end consumer? The thing which will be built has a psychological effect for the Balkans because you cannot be attractive for EU – president of the Kosovo Chamber of Commerce, Safet Grdjaliju, outlines.

Pristina has a preliminary design and the Feasibility study for the section to Merdare, 22 km long. They need EUR 150 and 200 m. They are now waiting for an investor and EU support.

Proposals of two parties differ in route. Pristina wants the road to go across Leskovac, to connect it to their Pomoravlje road and Belgrade wants the Toplice road to go there, to exit to Kursumlija, Podujevo, towards Pristina and Gracanica.

Regardless of the route, it should be 120 kilometers longs and to connect central Serbia with Albania.

The highway is potentially important for 50 million people who live in this region. If two parties agree about the route and find funds, construction could start early next year.