Macedonia's inclusion in the South Stream project and the construction of a national gas distribution network are of exceptional strategic significance for the country, which becomes a part of the international transport corridors and obtains stable gas source for future generations, said Vice Premier and Finance Minister Zoran Stavreski on Thursday.

"We have secured a stable gas source for future generations, the economy, the citizens. I believe prices will be lower, taking into account the quantity and the increased number of beneficiaries", Stavreski told reporters in the Customs Administration.

According to him, the 2010 agreement over Russia's clearing debt to Macedonia stipulated its closure through the building of a national gas distribution network, whereas the signing of the memorandum between the countries' companies should result in the beginning of construction by the year-end, encompassing cities nationwide.

With regards to Macedonia's inclusion in South Stream gas pipeline, FinMin Stavreski said the Russian Federation has accepted the country's involvement in the project.

"A Russian-Macedonian company will be established as soon as the draft-agreement is harmonized, followed by the construction of a branch in Macedonia", he added.

South Stream construction is to begin in December and last until 2015, carrying 63 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year.