North Macedonia invites Turkish investors to 'build future together'

North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski on Friday invited Turkish businesspeople to invest in his country, saying the doors are open for partnerships that leverage his nation’s gateway position between Türkiye and Europe. Speaking at the Türkiye-North Macedonia Business Forum organized by the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) in Istanbul, Mickoski emphasized that political friendship dating back to 1991 should translate into concrete economic cooperation.

Deep Ties and Strategic Position

Mickoski noted that Türkiye was among the first countries to recognize North Macedonia’s independence in 1991, with more than one million citizens in Türkiye tracing roots to his country. “There are few countries in the world that can boast of such deep human ties as exist between both countries today,” he said, highlighting the unique cultural foundation for business relationships. He pointed to North Macedonia’s geographical position as a natural gateway connecting the Middle East, Türkiye, and Southeast Europe with central European markets, allowing Turkish firms to establish production facilities integrated into the European supply chain.

Investment Climate and Reforms

The prime minister stressed that his government has implemented reforms to reduce administrative procedures and digitize public services, creating what he called exceptionally favorable conditions for business development. “My country is emerging as a country that offers stability, predictability, and exceptionally favorable conditions for business development,” Mickoski said, noting that North Macedonia ranks among the most competitive business destinations in the Western Balkans. He underscored the availability of a young, educated workforce, a stable financial system, and modern technological development zones ready to support foreign capital.

Development Strategy

Mickoski revealed that the government has prepared a National Development Strategy until 2044 in partnership with the UN Development Program, identifying 13 key areas with potential to transform the country into a regional hub for production and logistics. “The doors are open, the opportunities are real, and we can build the future together,” he told participants, adding that the goal is to build a long-term partnership creating value for both sides rather than merely attracting capital. Many Turkish companies already operate successfully across various industries in North Macedonia, ensuring new investors enter a familiar environment with an established business ecosystem.