A "Joint Declaration" of Intent for Economic Cooperation was signed in Berlin between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of the Republic of North Macedonia and the Federal Ministry for Economics and Energy of the Federal Republic of Germany.
This opens a new chapter in the deepening of economic relations, trade exchange and investment cooperation between the two countries.
The event was attended by the State Secretary at the Ministry of Economy and Labor, Jumni Ademi, who emphasized that the declaration is a clear confirmation of the joint commitment to a stronger partnership in the context of a complex global economy.
"In a time of rapid technological change, disrupted supply chains and a heightened need for a green transition, such cooperation is crucial to ensuring stable and sustainable economic development," Ademi stressed.
He pointed out that economic transformation is at the core of the country's development policy, with a clear direction towards the development of industries with higher added value, modern production and advanced services.
"Our goal is to build a competitive and export-oriented industrial base, which will be able to position itself in regional and global markets, creating products with higher added value and sustainable solutions," the State Secretary emphasized.
In his address, Ademi emphasized that the Government actively supports companies through specific policies and measures, enabling them to modernize production processes, introduce new technologies and strengthen human capacities.
Additionally, he also addressed the importance of legal solutions that provide stable and predictable support for investors, including incentives for new employment, support for research and development, as well as support for strategic investments.
In the area of ​​innovation and digital transformation, Ademi emphasized that the Government is actively working to create a dynamic ecosystem that will encourage the development of new technologies, startups and entrepreneurship.
"Long-term competitiveness cannot be achieved without a strong focus on innovation and digitalization. That is why we are investing in technological development, research and creating conditions for the growth of the startup ecosystem," Ademi pointed out.
He also highlighted the Program for Encouraging Innovation, Scientific and Technological Development and Entrepreneurship 2026–2029, with a budget of EUR12 million, as an important instrument for supporting innovative projects, as well as the "Greening Business Facility" initiative worth EUR25 million, which will contribute to the green transformation of companies.
Particular emphasis was placed on the development of human capital and youth.
"Creating quality and well-paid jobs for young people is our priority. Through active employment measures, training and support for entrepreneurship, we are working to build a modern and competitive workforce," said Ademi, referring to the Operational Plan for Employment for 2026, with a budget of EUR40 million.
Finally, the State Secretary emphasized that such partnerships are essential for achieving sustainable growth.
"No economy can thrive in isolation. Through strengthened bilateral cooperation, knowledge exchange and joint initiatives, we can create new opportunities for our companies and citizens," concluded Ademi.
The Ministry of Economy and Labor will continue to actively work on promoting economic cooperation with the Federal Republic of Germany, as one of the key economic partners of the Republic of North Macedonia, in order to ensure sustainable economic growth and a better standard of living for citizens.
