A total of 300 companies and 500 participants attended the Macedonian–Turkish Business Forum in Istanbul, held in the presence of high-level government delegations from both countries, as well as prominent Macedonian business leaders whose contribution to the domestic economy is of exceptional importance.

The Forum featured presentations on investment opportunities in Macedonia, two panel discussions dedicated to infrastructure, logistics, and industrial connectivity, concluding remarks by the Prime Minister of the RNM, Prof. Dr. Hristijan Mickoski, and the Turkish Minister of Trade, Prof. Dr. Ömer Bolat, as well as B2B meetings that generated considerable interest among companies from both countries seeking new partnerships.

Several key messages emerged from the event. Participants emphasized that the Forum was held at a time of excellent political relations between the two countries and that a shared vision for regional prosperity exists, supported by strong intergovernmental dialogue. This provides an excellent foundation for the business community to expand trade, investment, and strategic partnerships.

The relationship and connectivity between the two countries have achieved remarkable progress over the years. Bilateral trade has surpassed USD 1 billion, yet participants at the Forum expressed confidence that trade has the potential to double to USD 2 billion and beyond.

Regarding Macedonia’s investment potential, it was highlighted that the country’s geographic location offers opportunities for companies to operate not only within Macedonia, but also throughout the region and across Europe, depending on the size and scope of the investing company.

It was noted that Macedonia has both a disadvantage and an advantage. The disadvantage is that the country is landlocked. The advantage, however, is its strategic geographic position as the only country in Southeastern Europe where two Pan-European Corridors, VIII and X, intersect. Corridor X is among the most important transport routes in Europe, with its eastern branch beginning in Istanbul and its western branch beginning in Athens, at the Port of Piraeus, both extending to Helsinki, Finland. As such, it represents one of Europe’s longest and most innovative economic corridors. Macedonia is quite lucky that Corridor X cannot exist without our country.

Regarding Corridor VIII, a series of activities are currently underway in the country, reflecting the Government’s vision that the transport corridors possess strategic infrastructural significance.

In his closing address, Prime Minister Prof. Dr. Hristijan Mickoski invited Turkish companies to recognize the country’s potential and become part of its development process. He emphasized that the country offers a stable business climate, favorable investment conditions, and access to regional and European markets. Türkiye remains one of Macedonia’s most important economic and trade partners, with bilateral trade reaching approximately USD 1 billion last year.

The Forum concluded with organized B2B meetings between companies from both countries, attracting significant interest in establishing new contacts, strengthening communication, and deepening business partnerships.