The only Macedonian defense industry company, ATS Group, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation this afternoon with MKE – the largest state-owned industrial company in Turkey, which includes the opening of a new gunpowder production factory in Macedonia, with joint investments by both sides.
The memorandum was signed by MKE General Director Ilhami Keles and ATS Group Owner and CEO Shefshet Demirovski. As the signatories noted, this cooperation will boost the activities of both companies and increase their presence on the international market, especially in Turkey and Macedonia.
Macedonia Strengthens Its Position in a New Direction: Gunpowder Production
The event was attended by the Ministers of Defense and Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Vlado Misajlovski and Timcho Mucunski, as well as the Deputy Minister of National Defense of Turkey, Heybet Musa.
Photo: MFA
Government Support and Economic Benefits: New Job Openings and National Growth
In his address, Mucunski pointed out that the aim of the memorandum is to establish a framework for cooperation and solutions for the defense industry, including strategic activities and production of defense industry products. As he said, the partnership of the two companies is of great importance for the country as a NATO member.
The Minister announced that in the coming period, projects are planned for the establishment of new production lines by MKE, using the expertise and technology of ATS Group.
“This cooperation will open up the opportunity for increased presence on the international market, as well as the market of both countries. A particularly important aspect of this cooperation is that it includes the opening of a new factory, which will result in the creation of new jobs and a direct contribution to the national economy. This is proof of the Government’s commitment to attracting foreign investments, accelerated economic development, job creation and improving the living standards of citizens. Additionally, in the coming period, projects are planned for the establishment of new production lines by MKE using the expertise and technology of ATS Group in this specific area” — said Mucunski.
The signing is not just a business decision, added Mucunski, but a strong message of confidence in our industrial capacities and recognition of our human resources potential.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Turkey’s Deputy Minister of National Defense Heybet Musa expressed satisfaction with the signing of the memorandum, “which is a strategic step that will further strengthen the relations between the two allied and friendly countries.”
As he said, it is not only a document of technical partnership, but also a proof of friendship and trust between Macedonia and Turkey. I wholeheartedly believe, he said, that our cooperation will contribute to the goals of sustainable development and that the agreement will be beneficial for our two countries and for the entire region.
