Macedonia's investment benefits were presented before a large number of companies from different fields at a business forum in Paris late on Wednesday, organized by the Government in cooperation with the Financial Times Group.

Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski briefed potential investors on Macedonia's stable macroeconomic policy and stable political situation.

"Macedonia met all criteria to join NATO in 2008 and the EU accession criteria in 2009, but due to problems with our southern neighbor related to the country's name, identity and language, the NATO accession and EU talks have been delayed. The European Commission has since extended recommendations for opening of the accession talks, but this has not materialized because or the name issue", Gruevski told businessmen.

He stressed that Macedonia has concluded free trade agreements with all European states, meaning the EU, Turkey, Ukraine, SEE states, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Lichtenstein, whereas activities are ongoing for signing of such agreements with other Asian and African countries.

"This is a chance for many companies, especially those outside of Europe, who see Macedonia as a gate to Europe, to establish a business in the country", said PM Gruevski.

He referred to the benefits offered in free economic zones, where companies such as Johnson Matthey, Johnson Controls, Protek Group, Tehnohoze, Draexlemaier, Kromberg&Schubert, Kemet Electronics have opened production facilities.

"Those who invest in economic zones are exempted from paying personal tax in the first ten years, no profit tax, customs fees and VAT for raw materials. The land price is symbolic and there is infrastructure for all required operations", said Gruevski.

He also highlighted the low costs for doing business, including the lowest taxes in Europe.

Moreover, he referred to the educated workforce and young people who are prepared to join the companies.

Gruevski urged French businessmen to come to Macedonia, see these things first-hand, and talk to those who have already invested in the country.

Vice Premier and Finance Minister Zoran Stavreski said Macedonia is a country with potential for larger growth than other European states due to the competitiveness of its economy.

"Another benefits for investors are the low costs for doing business and the support they are given, along with the favorable tax package, free zones, qualified and cheap workforce", said Stavreski.

According to him, investors seek a simple business environment with less corruption and bureaucracy.

"We cut the business red tape to the maximum. A company can now open in several hours", said Stavreski, adding the country has proper legislation for investment protection, as well as a stable financial and banking sector.

The Paris business forum is the second of the 13 that the Government is hosting in cooperation with the Financial Times.