Improvement of conditions in healthcare institutions, the new medical equipment and reconstruction of health facilities in Macedonia is the foundation for development of health tourism, said participants at the first conference on health tourism development in the Republic of Macedonia.

The National Strategy for Health Tourism Development and Promotion 2012-2018 was promoted at the conference.

"The value of projects in the health sector is EUR 100 million, resulting in health institutions providing all services, which are required for attraction of domestic and foreign patients", said Health Minister Nikola Todorov.

Economy Minister Valon Saraqini said tourism data has shown a big rise over the past couple of years, while Minister of Transport and Communications Mile Janakieski promised further support to health tourism.

Agency for Tourism Support and Promotion director Jordan Trajkov stressed development of health tourism would result in increase of foreign currency income, strengthening of public and private health institutions, reduction of unemployment and better position of companies operating in the tourism field.