“Macedonia 2025” in the Canadian city of Toronto promoted Macedonia as an export-oriented destination for a number of industries as well as its investment opportunities. Over 25 participants discussed the investment conditions in the automotive, energy, mining, IT, agribusiness and healthcare sector.

The conference brought together more than 100 representatives of the Macedonian business diaspora in North America, members of the Macedonia 2025 Board, potential Canadian investors, a business delegation from Macedonia, as well as government officials including ministers Mile Janakieski and Jerry Naumoff and Viktor Mizo – director of the Directorate for Technological and Industrial Development Zones.

“Canada and Macedonia in the interest of mutual benefit are using their favourable relations dating back to as early as the 19^th century. As an entrepreneur and proud friend of Macedonia, I welcome this very special opportunity to improve the bilateral investments and the trade partnerships between Canada and the 175-million market in south and central Europe, which is on the rise,” said Ontario Senator Don Meredith at the conference.

John Bitove, a member of the Macedonia 2025 Board, said he hoped the conference would result in a fresh influx of investments in Macedonia.

“Macedonia’s natural resources, its qualified workforce and its determined operability support good business results. All of this enables partnerships to be established producing development and profitable growth,” said Beth Pritchard of Sunrise Beauty Studio.

Macedonia at a panel discussion dedicated to the sector of automotive parts was pinpointed as the first stop on Europe’s soil as a way to increase the global competitiveness of this Canadian industry.

“Macedonia has a proper approach toward attracting investments and enjoys a reputation of good supporter of production companies. The manufacturers of car parts, who are searching for a critical mass of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in an open market, should definitively have in mind the key location of and the favourable infrastructure in Macedonia,” stated Flavio Volpe – president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association (APMA).

“Macedonia 2025” announced it would work on strengthening the ties with Canadian investors pledging to continue promoting Macedonia as a favourable business location.