Details
The event brought together representatives of institutions, the business community, international organizations, civil society and the media, with the aim of opening a broader discussion on the importance of integrity, transparency and compliance as prerequisites for a competitive and sustainable economy.
The conference was opened with introductory remarks by Dr. Pavel Usvatov, Director of the KAS Rule of Law Programme Southeast Europe, H.E. Petra Drexler, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to North Macedonia and Mr. Ben Nupnau, Deputy Head of the Delegation of the European Union to North Macedonia. In their remarks, the speakers emphasized the importance of strengthening integrity and trust in the business environment, as well as the role of SMEs in building a more resilient and competitive economy.
As part of the panel discussion “Integrity as a Competitive Advantage for SMEs”, participants discussed the importance of transparent and responsible business practices, the role of institutions in creating a predictable business environment and the need to strengthen cooperation between the public and private sectors. Special emphasis was placed on transparency in public procurement, compliance with European standards and the importance of corporate integrity for building trust, attracting investments and establishing long-term partnerships.
The panel featured Aleksandar Nikoloski, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Adem Chuchulj, President of the State Commission for Prevention of Corruption, Branko Azeski, President of the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia, Valentina Disoska from the Association of Business Women and Snezhana Zdraveska, Finance Manager and Compliance Officer at Markart Macedonia.
During the conference, the project “Business with Integrity North Macedonia” was also presented. The project aims to mobilize SMEs as active partners in promoting integrity, transparency and anti-corruption practices. It foresees activities focused on strengthening the capacities of companies through trainings, advisory support, educational tools, dialogue platforms and mechanisms for recognizing and promoting companies that apply high standards of integrity and compliance.
The event provided an opportunity for the exchange of experiences and good practices, while also encouraging broader dialogue on the role of the private sector in building a more transparent, fair and competitive economic environment in North Macedonia.
The conference was organized within the EU co-funded project “Business with Integrity North Macedonia – Mobilizing SMEs as Champions Against Corruption”.
