The Minister of Economy and Labor, Besar Durmishi, participated in the "Kosovo Finance Forum 2026", where he addressed the topic "Building Trust in Financial Markets in the Western Balkans".
In his address, Minister Durmishi emphasized that trust is a key prerequisite for investment, economic development and stability, especially in times of dynamic economic and geopolitical changes. He emphasized that European integration remains a strategic goal of the Republic of North Macedonia and the main driver of economic reforms, aimed at creating a predictable, transparent and competitive economy.
The Minister pointed out that access to finance is essential for industrial development, with the Government actively working on creating policies that encourage investment, job creation and the development of modern industries. In this regard, the focus is on digital and green transformation, as key drivers of economic growth.
Durmishi informed that through new financial instruments, grants and co-investment mechanisms, access to capital is facilitated, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises, which are the backbone of the economy. Additionally, with the establishment of the Agency for Innovation and Development - INOVA, institutional support for innovation, research and development is strengthened.
He announced that the amendments to the Law on Financial Support for Investments, which will enter into force in 2026, will introduce a system that will stimulate investments with high added value, new jobs and technological progress.
In the labor market, the Minister noted that EUR40 million have been provided for active employment measures, targeting young people, the unemployed and support for entrepreneurship, with the aim of creating quality and sustainable jobs.
Special emphasis was placed on sectors with high added value, such as information and communication technologies (ICT) and the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, which are recognized as key to economic transformation and increasing competitiveness.
Minister Durmishi stressed the importance of regional cooperation, pointing out that the Western Balkan countries can jointly create a competitive and attractive market for investors. In this context, the European Union's Growth Plan for the Western Balkans was assessed as a historic opportunity to accelerate reforms and economic development.
"The Western Balkans is not just a region - it is an economic potential. Our task is to turn that potential into investments, innovations and sustainable growth," said Minister Durmishi.
The Ministry of Economy and Labor remains committed to creating policies that will strengthen trust in institutions, encourage investment, and ensure stable and inclusive economic growth.
