Skopje, 27 September 2023 (MIA) - The first British Business Association (BBA) in North Macedonia, which aims to promote trade relations with the United Kingdom, advocate the interests of British companies in the country and other companies with British business interests, was inaugurated at the Skopje-based British Embassy on Wednesday.

Companies Johnson Matthey and Sopro, and SASA mine are the association's founders.

"North Macedonia is the UK's largest trading partner in the Western Balkans. We value this partnership and will continue to build on this success story and strengthen our trade relations. As a strong partner and close friend, we are interested and ready to be your preferential partner through our industrial capabilities, investment ecosystem and government support. British businesses are synonymous to transparency, sustainability, innovation, cooperation and partnership, and BBA's goal is to promote these values within the Macedonian business environment, in close cooperation with all stakeholders," said British Ambassador Matthew Lawson at the event.

Ambassador Lawson said the BBA represents a turning point in the strong trade relations between the two countries, in the year marking 30 years from the establishment of diplomatic ties.

"Since the signing of the bilateral agreement on partnership, trade and cooperation on 3 December 2020, the Embassy has looked into the opportunities for future support of growth in trade relations. We actively continue to demonstrate the expertise and capabilities of the British industry to relevant projects and stakeholders in the country and region, promoting Great Britain as a preferential trading and investment partner in North Macedonia," said Lawson and added their focus is placed on infrastructure, energy, mining, sustainable development, health, security and defense.

UK Prime Minister's Trade Envoy to the Western Balkans, Martin Vickers, said bilateral relations have led to some impressive investment stories, with more to follow in the years ahead.

"This association will have a leading role in this and I am grateful to all businesses involved for their efforts and commitment to the success of this organization. The business community can count not only on my support but also the support of the UK government in the realization of this potential," said Vickers.

He added that North Macedonia is UK's largest trading partner in the Western Balkans, primarily due to plant for catalysts Johnson Matthey.

"The UK Export Credits Guarantee Department has recently increased its commitments, with companies having access to GBR 4 billion (EUR 4,6 billion) for North Macedonia alone," said Vickers.

He added that North Macedonia is a brand in the Western Balkans and a model of stability that attracts the largest British companies.

Photo: MIA