Honorable President of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia, Mr. Nikola Gruevski,
Distinguished Representatives of the Macedonian Diaspora, Esteemed Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear Friends,

Investment, by definition, is directed towards the future. Therefore, with great pleasure I have accepted the invitation to address you on this first Macedonia Global Investment Summit. I take this opportunity to congratulate the organizers – “Macedonia 2025” and to welcome the participants.

As President of the Republic of Macedonia, I have participated so far in many summits. Nevertheless, this is the very first of its kind organized in the Republic of Macedonia. Summit that brings together more than 40 world business leaders in one place, here, in our spiritual and cultural capital Ohrid. Summit which is fully focused on the future.

Esteemed Guests,
Insofar as Macedonia is known for something, than, it is surely its traditional hospitality. Thanks to the diligent work, reforms and commitment over the past years we have also become recognized as a good foreign direct investment destination. Macedonia is open for cooperation and has a lot to offer. This is proven by the global rating lists; Macedonian free market guarantees the ownership rights. We have skilled and highly qualified but relatively cheap labor force. As crossroads of Southeast Europe, the location of the Republic of Macedonia is excellent for transit and distribution of goods. Not to forget the low and flat taxes of 10% and the extremely easy process of registration of companies - in only four hours. However, there is a lot more than that.

Distinguished Representatives of the Macedonian Diaspora,
The Republic of Macedonia has friends and supporters throughout the world. Yet, this Investment Summit proves that the best friend of Macedonia and of the Macedonians should be the Macedonians, wherever they live, work and thrive. This Summit is a confirmation that the Macedonian business Diaspora is a faithful and stable partner which inspires and motivates us with its success.

Therefore, on behalf of the citizens of Macedonia and on my personal behalf, I would like to express our appreciation. Your dedication speaks of the love that you share towards Macedonia. When something is given at the right moment, the value is much bigger and more important. Rest assured that what you are doing today is the greatest investment in our common homeland of such kind. Macedonia Global Investment Summit reflects the desire, the will and the determination of the Macedonian Diaspora to be actively involved in building Macedonia's future.

In its successful functioning, "Macedonia 2025" has demonstrated its leading role as a platform for networking of people, ideas and capital. As a platform for strengthening of the economic cooperation between the business Diaspora and the Macedonian economy, science and education in light of improving the trade exchange and investment.

Driven by the mission to help in the creation of a favorable economic climate in the Republic of Macedonia, the team of "Macedonia 2025" has made available its expertise, knowledge and contacts. Hence, availing myself of this opportunity, I would like to encourage the participants of this summit, to seize the offered opportunity.

Esteemed guests,
Time is not waiting, it is quickly leaking away. Some will say that the year 2025 is far, that we have time and we need not hasten. However, we must not forget that time is relative category. The steel is tempered while it is hot. In terms of global economic and financial crisis, we must not lose the reform and economic condition we have reached. We need not only maintain but also further accelerate the reform pace in the economy, judiciary, legislation, education, science and other key sectors. Only 13 years remain for us to achieve the set goal - advanced, rich and prosperous Republic of Macedonia. Macedonia as acknowledged, recognized and desired destination for foreign direct investment. Macedonia as a common home of its citizens and its Diaspora. I believe we are on the right track.

A few days ago, the Republic of Macedonia, for the fourth time in a row, received a positive Progress Report of the European Commission, which states that our country continues to meet all the necessary requirements and is ready to start accession negotiations with the European Union. It speaks of our commitment, but also of our hard work.

Macedonia is our only common home. Please note that you are part of our only common home and that we are fully prepared for concrete cooperation with the business Diaspora. We are at your disposal at any time. All state institutions, agencies, chambers of commerce support this noble initiative. We are willing to hear your views, ideas and advice on how to make Macedonia more successful in the field of economy. Maybe 13 years is not much, but quite sufficient if we work hard, in togetherness, with mutual trust and respect.

Dear Friends,
Confident that the seed sown during this summit will result in rich harvest, I wish you a successful and fruitful work.

Thank you.