The summer period was used to intensify our international activities. At this juncture, this is essential, as the business sector faces several barriers that must be addressed. Above all, I am referring to administrative hurdles regarding the entry, stay, and movement of our businesspeople in the EU—ranging from electronic registration and biometric controls to additional requirements for residency and business engagement. These measures carry tangible consequences for our businesses in terms of procedures, time, and added costs. Furthermore, we continue to work persistently on boosting exports, which we have stated publicly countless times is our top priority among priorities.

Taking things in order: this week, specifically on 10 September, our guest will be EU Ambassador Michalis Rokas, a well-known friend of ours. With him, we will discuss the following topics: trade facilitation with the EU and the removal of existing administrative barriers between us. Other pertinent matters and EU reports assessing our positions and implementation will certainly not be overlooked. The Chamber's Management Board, as its highest governing body, along with Business Club Europe—representing the Chamber in EU affairs—will serve as interlocutors on our side.

I also had a very candid exchange of views on the economy with the Chargée d'Affaires of the U.S. Mission to North Macedonia, Ms. Nicole Varnes. I took the opportunity to brief her on several of our initiatives aimed at increasing the trade volume. Among them is the long-prepared visit of a delegation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, planned for early next year.

Swiss diplomatic representatives, as always—on their National Day, as well as during the Tikveš Grozdober (Grape Harvest Festival)—reaffirmed their strong project-based support for us, which will continue moving forward.

The same holds true for the World Bank Country Office, where I held negotiations regarding a new project.

When coupled with the activities of the Western Balkans 6 Chamber Investment Forum (WB6 CIF), which we currently chair, alongside my participation as President in the Western Balkans Ministers of Economy meeting with the EU leadership in Cetinje and the major conference in Budva, we have ample evidence of our full-capacity return to the international stage, which remains vital for us.

I will reiterate once more: without cutting corners or making excuses, but with honest intentions to help ourselves and without hesitation to seek assistance from those more advanced than us. Only then will international business engagement truly deliver meaningful results.