As part of the initiative stemming from the already developed and adopted Regional Strategy for the Green Economy Transition of the Pelagonija Planning Region—and the ongoing process within the Pelagonija–Prespa Forum—this year as well, the Regional Chambers based in Bitola and Prilep within the Economic Chamber, in cooperation with “Pro Local” from Bitola, held the third consecutive Forum for the Promotion of the Economic and Social Development of our Pelagonija and Prespa region. The event took place on 19 November 2025, at the production plant of “M Flex – MAPET” in Bitola.

This year’s forum focused on business and youth, the development of human resources, with emphasis on improving the situation of young people, their economic and social activation, and creating local opportunities for employment and development.

Before an audience of more than 200 participants, the following speakers delivered remarks and shared their perspectives:

H.E. Özlem Canel, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Macedonia; Marjan Risteski, Deputy Minister of Economy and Labor; Daniela Dimovska, Director of the Innovation and Technological Development Agency (INOVA); Emilija Gjeroska, President of “Pro Local”; Natasha Janevska, Education Advisor in the Office of the President of the Economic Chamber; Fatmir Sabriu, State Secretary at the Ministry of Social Policy, Demography and Youth; and Mirko Velkovski, President of the Regional Chamber based in Bitola, who opened the working session of the forum.

As part of the forum, a Memorandum was also signed for the establishment, formation and development of the Regional Youth Hub “Pelagonija.”

The Regional Youth Hub—supported by the municipalities and the regional chambers from the Pelagonija region that signed the memorandum—will represent a continuation and enhancement of the regional youth platform initiated by the civil society organization “Pro Local.” Its aim is to connect young people, municipalities, academic institutions, companies, and the civil sector. The activities of the regional hub will be supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in our country within the third extension of the ongoing project.

The Regional Chambers of Bitola and Prilep within the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia will continue supporting development initiatives such as regional centers for new technologies, digital skills development, innovation, green practices, and circular economy, with a focus on preparing young people for the economy of the future and supporting companies in the processes of digital transformation and the application of artificial intelligence.