Skopje, 30 March 2026 (MIA) - Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski addressed Monday a business forum in Budapest titled "Hungary - Macedonia Business Cooperation Day", an event that brought together represenratives of institutions and business communities from both countries, aimed at enhancing economic ties, experience exchange and new investment perspectives.

PM Mickoski said such fora are not only platforms for exchange of ideas but a concrete mechanism to establish new partnerships and strengthen bilateral economic cooperation, adding that direct communication among companies is key in creating new business models, opening markets and generating sustainable economic growth, the Government said in a press release.

The PM said that the newly-established Skopje-Budapest flight represents a significant step forward in connecting the two countries, not only from the aspect of mobility but also as a strong incentive for development of business cooperation, investments and tourism.

While presenting the country's economic performance, Mickoski said the Government implements policies focused on creating a stable, predictable and competitive business environment. As a result, the country reached historic levels of foreign direct investments of about US$ 1.25 billion in 2024, positioning it among Europe's leading invdstments destinations.

The PM also referred to the Government's political stability and its institutional capacity, noting that the stable parliamentary majority and continuity of electoral wins ensure a solid foundation for implementation of reforms and long-term economic development, adding that the executive remains fully committed to the reform agenda, rule of law, fight against corruption and digital transformation as prerequisites for attracting new investments.

Mickoski also referred to the country's European prospects, saying that despite the challenges and the years-long process, it remains focused on reforms and meeting criteria based on merit, while adding that progress should be valued objectively and in line with European standards, with the clear goal of improving the citizens' standard of living.

Mickoski sent a clear message to the business community that Macedonia is open to investments and partnerships, offering favorable conditions, a strategic geographic position and qualified workforce. He encouraged Hungarian companies to consider investing in Macedonia, while also highlighting that Macedonian companies are ready to enlarge their activities on the Hungarian market.

In conclusion, the PM voiced assurance that today's forum would result in concrete agreements and long-term partnerships that contribute to the countries' economic development.

The Budapest forum includes several dozens Macedonian companies that are set to link up with their Hungarian counterparts.

Promoting bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and current regional and European issues will be in the focus of Mickoski's meeting with Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orbán during the visit.

The Government delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Aleksandar Nikoloski, Minister of Economy and Labour Besar Durmishi, Government Secretary General Igor Janushev, head of the Agency for Foreign Investments and Export Promotion, Refik Xhemaili, head of the Directorate for Technological Industrial Development Zones, Goce Dimovski, as well as head of the Agency for Innovation Activity, Scientific and Technological Development and Entrepreneurship, Daniela Dimovska.

Photo: Government