A new digging site in the zinc and lead mine in Makedonska Kamenica was opened Thursday, which is expected to open 30 new jobs and extend the mine's lifetime by 12 years.

The Euro 18 million investment to open a new shaft in Sasa mine demonstrates that Macedonia's economy is tough defying the general economic crisis in Europe, according to Deputy PM and Finance Minister Zoran Stavreski. "It also confirms the traditionally favourable relations with Russian investors who have concluded that Macedonia is offering one of the best conditions for running a business."

"I have to say that in spite of the extremely difficult conditions and challenges coming from Europe, Macedonia's economy has become a phenomenon - while workers are being laid off in Europe, new jobs are being opened in Macedonia. While production and economic activity is dropping in Europe, new facilities and plants are inaugurated in Macedonia," stressed Stavreski.

He added that the sector of mining was vital for the Macedonian economy participating with over 18% in the GDP. Mining production in the first two months of 2013 rose by 17%, which is seen as a positive sign.

"I expect the opening of this capacity to positively affect the economic growth, especially if we take into consideration the positive trends involving zinc and lead prices on global markets," said FinMin Stavreski.