The President of the Economic Chamber, Branko Azeski, held a working meeting with the candidate for Mayor of the City of Skopje, and current President of ZELS and Mayor of the Municipality of Kisela Voda, Orce Gjorgjievski, at the premises of the Economic Chamber.

During the meeting, President Azeski placed emphasis on economic issues important for both the business community and the local self-government of the City of Skopje, as the largest industrial center in the country.

The discussions focused on several key areas:

1.     Decentralization of power, which is fundamental for establishing an efficient local self-government system and removing administrative obstacles to business development. It includes respecting the competences (responsibilities and obligations) of the City of Skopje and its municipalities, ensuring a functional public transport system that supports environmental protection and economic development, and establishing efficient public enterprises that serve both citizens and businesses. Also discussed was the need for mechanisms to bridge gaps in cases where one of the stakeholders fails to fulfill their obligations within the scope of responsibilities of the City or its municipalities.

2.     Infrastructure improvement aimed at increasing investment activities and creating a favorable climate for business growth, particularly through the reduction of lengthy administrative procedures (building permits, legal property issues). Special focus was placed on export-oriented businesses that generate added value and create new jobs. Investment activity, as a key priority for the largest business organization, would lead to higher GDP growth, improved living standards for citizens, and company development.

3.     Education and workforce development, particularly ensuring skilled labor by actively involving the city in strengthening the capacity of vocational schools under the jurisdiction of local government. Skopje, as a talent hub, holds the greatest potential for national development, housing the most significant schools, universities, and institutions producing qualified professionals.

During the meeting, President Azeski stated: “Wherever there’s a division of competences, there are problems. Whether it's a city or a municipality – one street under one authority, another under another – this is not the best solution for Skopje as a unified whole. Perhaps it's time to reconsider this from all angles. We’re not saying centralization is the best solution, but overlapping competences create problems—especially in urban planning, which is where we are most focused on finding a resolution.” He also advised the mayoral candidate to make the most of the City Budget by investing it in productive initiatives.

Orce Gjorgjievski, the candidate for Mayor of Skopje, stated that it is essential to have a solid economic strategy for developing the capital, a strong economy, and new, well-paid jobs. He emphasized to the business community that the economy is the heart of any real progress and that they can count on him as a stable and open partner in building a strong and competitive Skopje.