Here at home, businesperson Zhivko Mukaetov, nearing the end of his term as president of the Macedonian Handball Federation, has demonstrated how to believe in oneself and inspire others. Simply put, by nurturing and developing young athletes. Never before have I watched more motivational matches, brimming with young faces eager to prove themselves. This is the example that should be followed.

As the longest month of the year draws to a close, its final week will be remembered as a time of strategic shifts for the Chamber’s goals and as a week that opens new perspectives for North Macedonia.

On Thursday, presidents of regional chambers will convene to discuss infrastructure as a driver of business development. The following day, the Chamber will announce several institutions foundational to boosting exports.

This marks the transition from words to tangible action. The National Export Council, the Export Institute, and the Exporters Club will be central tools supporting companies. We extend great thanks to the American people and government, who, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), have enabled the Chamber to build new business partnerships across the Balkans.

I take this opportunity to thank everyone who participated in these operations, especially Professor Darko Lazarov, who persistently urged me to accelerate these processes. Today, the Exporters Club boasts 200 members, the Institute has commenced operations, and the Council held three sessions in 2024.

The coming days promise to be equally dynamic. We anticipate the launch of the operation utilizing Hungarian loan resources and a strengthened legislative initiative.

Additionally, the Chamber will focus on combating corruption and the grey economy, which are crucial priorities. Last week, we hosted guests from the U.S.A. who informed us about the Three Seas Initiative, emphasizing economics over politics—a shared goal. This initiative aims to create a business zone to elevate living standards and company profitability from the Baltic to the Black and Adriatic Seas.

However, other challenges lie ahead, including continuing the scientific conference on new technologies (its first session held in 2018), implementing the analysis of added value, increasing productivity and innovation in Macedonian companies, forming a Diaspora Cooperation Council, and enhancing the role of companies in protecting and promoting Macedonia’s natural, cultural, and historical heritage. To sum up, we must press forward with even greater intensity in executing our activities.

P.S. The podcast by ECNM and Third Ear continues its mission to spotlight young business leaders ready to shoulder the burden and risks of the Macedonian economy in the coming years. I highly recommend tuning into episodes featuring Gligor Cvetanov from Makprogres – Vinica and Viktor Mizo from Kostal – Ohrid, two proven business leaders from the interior.