The construction of technological-industrial development zone Vinica was launched on Saturday, located at the town's outskirts, 115km from airport "Alexander the Great" and 160km from Bogorodica border crossing with Greece.

The cornerstone-laying ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski, Vice Premier for Economic Affairs Vladimir Pesevski, Economy Minister Bekim Neziri, Directorate for Technological-Industrial Development Zones CEO Viktor Mizo and Vinica Mayor Emil Dimitriev.

"An important aspect for the zone is the construction of motorway Skopje-Stip, the Stip-Kocani express road and further development of the road network in this part of the country. All these prerequisites will surely make the zone a success, including new plants, job openings, revival of the region and better living standard of citizens", said PM Gruevski.

He said the Government would continue to work hard on improving the investment climate and promotion of the zones abroad, along with the construction of roads and local infrastructure.

"Realization of investments follows hard work and long-standing activities in attracting foreign capital to Macedonia. One of the measures is the construction of technological-industrial development zones. The Skopje and Stip zones are already operational, the ones in Kicevo, Prilep, Gevgelija, Tetovo, Struga, Radovis, Strumica and Rankovce are being constructed, whereas the cornerstones are laid today in Vinica and Berovo. In addition, the construction of the Delcevo zone will begin soon. Thus, we will cover all regions and have arguments for attraction of foreign investments", underlined Gruevski.

Vice Premier Pesevski said the zones' construction was part of the strategy of attracting foreign investments towards economic development.

"The concept has yielded results, since numerous companies have already invested in the zones", he added.

Minister Neziri voiced belief the Vinica and Berovo zone would benefit the local population and revive the entire eastern region.

"This zone represents an excellent opportunity for Macedonian companies to take part in the construction works and boost their business", stressed Neziri.

Directorate CEO Mizo said a junction road would enable a good connection of the zone with the motorway.

"Modern standards regarding the internal road network, water supply and sewerage infrastructure, power distribution and telecommunications will be applied in the Vinica zone. Moreover, environmental, security and other standards will be taken into account", he added.

Mayor Dimitriev said the Vinica zone would attract new investments and open new jobs.

"The site is at the border shared by the municipalities of Vinica, Kocani and Zrnovci, therefore providing jobs for citizens from all municipalities. This is the only way to bring emigrating compatriots back to the country", emphasized Dimitriev.