The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Affairs, Bekim Sali, participated in the North Macedonia–Türkiye Business Forum held in Istanbul, where he highlighted the importance of strengthening economic cooperation and building new partnerships between the two countries.
In his address, Minister Sali underlined the excellent relations between North Macedonia and Türkiye, founded on mutual trust, respect and long-standing partnership.
He noted that Türkiye remains one of North Macedonia’s most important economic partners, with Turkish companies making significant contributions to industry, infrastructure, banking, education and tourism, while creating jobs and supporting economic growth.
Referring to the Government’s priorities, Sali stressed that the Reform Agenda and the European Union Growth Plan for the Western Balkans are opening a new chapter of opportunities for economic development and private sector growth.
“For the first time, European integration is being directly linked to tangible investments, economic growth and gradual integration into the European Single Market. This creates new opportunities for businesses, investors and citizens alike,” said Sali.
He encouraged Turkish companies to explore opportunities available through IPA funds, the EU Growth Plan and the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), while emphasizing that Corridor VIII and Corridor X remain strategic infrastructure projects for regional connectivity and economic development.
Minister Sali also highlighted the significant potential for cooperation in renewable energy, digital transformation, innovation, advanced technologies and manufacturing, stressing that European integration is ultimately a project of modernization, competitiveness and prosperity.
