Under the theme “Connecting Switzerland and North Macedonia: Business Growth and Partnerships,” the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia hosted a business forum dedicated to advancing trade, investment, and economic cooperation between the two countries. The event was jointly organized by the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia and the Chamber of Commerce Switzerland-Central Europe (SEC), with the support of the Embassy of Switzerland in Skopje.

Branko Azeski, President of the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia, who held a working meeting with the new Swiss Ambassador to the country, H.E. Christoph Sommer, immediately before the forum opened, emphasized in a statement to the media that the event marks an important step forward in deepening business cooperation between the two nations.

“We have much to learn, and cooperation with Switzerland is a prime example—particularly in educating our companies and integrating them into new technological flows. We will also strive to engage the Macedonian community in Switzerland, and through their organizational structures increase the volume of trade, which currently stands at around USD 200 million. Our goal is to boost exports and create conditions for new partnerships and investments,” Azeski stated.

The event also featured the first public address of Ambassador Sommer. In his remarks, he highlighted the long-standing and successful cooperation between the two countries and noted that there are clear opportunities for further strengthening these ties.

“Companies today seek stable and reliable partners. Our two countries offer exactly those values. Switzerland is ready to support this closer cooperation—to help transform potential into concrete partnerships and prosperity for citizens,” the Ambassador said.

Oliver Bertschinger, President and Managing Director of the Chamber of Commerce Switzerland-Central Europe, delivered one of the opening remarks at the forum.

The event brought together companies from both Macedonia and Switzerland. Discussions focused on market outlooks, opportunities for entering the Swiss market, legal aspects of business cooperation, and the potential for joint investments, technological collaboration, and export initiatives.