Ivanov: Macedonia and Turkey can do more in trade exchange

Macedonia and Turkey can do a lot more in the field of investments and trade exchange. Back in 2012 we agreed that political relations are excellent but economic cooperation lags behind. Therefore we set the goal of increasing annual trade exchange to one billion dollars, said President Gjorge Ivanov in his address before Turkish businessmen in Istanbul late on Wednesday.

Ivanov attended a business dinner together with a delegation of the Economic Chamber of Macedonia, the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) and Turkish businessmen, the President’s Office said in a press release.

“We are pleased about Turkey’s continual economic development and success. On the other hand, Macedonia offers many opportunities. One thing is clear, we can do a lot more in the field of investments and trade exchange,” said Ivanov.

He said the countries’ institutions are investing efforts to facilitate the path towards the objective, which is supported by the geographic proximity, proper infrastructure networking and direct flights.

TOBB board member Cengiz Gunay asked for the support from President Ivanov in facilitating customs affairs.

“Macedonia is in the heart of Southeast Europe, a gate to 650 million consumers. About 100 Turkish companies have already invested USD 1,5 million and opened 5,000 jobs in Macedonia,” added Gunay.

On Thursday, President Ivanov is set to address the 21. Eurasian Economic Summit, which aims at enhancing economic and regional cooperation.