Astana, 29.05.2025
The Minister of Economy and Labor, Besar Durmishi, is participating in the Astana 2025 International Forum, taking place on May 29-30 in the capital of Kazakhstan. Minister Durmishi addressed the thematic session "Intellectual Property in the Era of Artificial Intelligence and Creative Industries: Challenges and Opportunities."
In his address, Minister Durmishi presented North Macedonia’s national strategy for the development and protection of intellectual property as a key component for an innovation-based economy, with a particular focus on startups and small and medium-sized enterprises. “For us, intellectual property is not just legal protection – it is a real economic resource,” Minister Durmishi emphasized.
He presented ongoing initiatives, such as the translation of the EIPO guides for startups, support through the Innovation and Technological Development Fund, strengthening cyber-security and harmonizing regulations with European Union standards. His presentation also focused on investments in innovation infrastructure – including two Centers of Excellence, a Technology Park, as well as initiatives for the digital transformation of small businesses through the European Digital Innovation Hub.
The participation in this Forum is a confirmation of the commitment of the Ministry of Economy and Labor to position North Macedonia as a country open to innovation, smart investments and sustainable economic development.