Macedonia's trade exchange with Middle East, Maghreb countries without strategy

Macedonia's foreign trade exchange with countries in the Middle East and Maghreb is occurring incidentally, without a general strategy. Companies' attempts to bolster it are still hampered by unestablished preferential trade, visa regime, complex and expensive procedure for document verification and the lack of diplomatic and consular offices. Modest bilateral regulation is also seen as a problem, it was concluded at a news conference Monday at the Economic Chamber of Macedonia.
Country's total exchange with Algeria, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Morocco, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan, Tunisia and Libya in the period between January and October 2011 stood at 50.7 million US dollars, out of which $15.6 million were accumulated by export and 34.9 million by import. Trade deficit is $19.3 million, while import-export coverage is 44.4%.
Ljubica Nuri of the Economic Chamber said that the Arab Spring did not significantly affect trade exchange, which was boosted with Algeria and Tunisia, but hugely reduced with Libya.
Macedonia in Middle East and Maghreb countries primarily exports agricultural and food products (33.3%) and iron and steel products (39.1%). The import balance includes household products, electronic devices and equipment (26.6%), construction materials (19.8%), petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals (12.9%) as well as agricultural and food produces (7.7%)."
Macedonian companies can increase their competitiveness on markets in the Middle East with Halal certification not only of products, but also of services," Nuri stated.Economic Chamber data suggest that this year a foreign-trade surplus has been realised with Iraq, Lebanon, UAE, Bahrain, Yemen and Tunisia, while trade deficit has occurred with Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Algeria, Israel, Kuwait, Libya, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Shopping In Delhi – Shop Till You Drop

Today i want to share my own experience of shopping in Delhi which is one activity that i love utmost. I am a true Delhitie, and like any other i love the street food and shopping in Delhi markets a lot. Last sunday on the Christmas Day i raided the markets of Delhi with my friends (i used the word raided because we were literally acting like the raiders). I am a big shopaholic and the different shopping centers in Delhi are the best places to hang out for the people like me.

So it was sunday evening and i was out with my friends, our first stop was Connaught Place the heart of Delhi and a paradise for shoppers. The entire market was looking lively with so many glittering lights making it look like a heaven. First we did some window shopping as usually people do in CP, then we hopped onto the Wranger's bakery and i must say that the dark choco chip muffin was simply wow. Then we decided to do some shopping which is my favorite hobby. After purchasing some good winter wears from there, we decided to explore a mall on the Christmas evening.

From there we went to Select City Mall in Saket and i must say that the entire place was looking so awesome, one can even spot it from the space also. Our first stop there was the Pizza Hut outlet as we all were starving with hunger. After having some really hot cheese pizza and ginger bread we decided to shop around. And i must say it was an experience in itself. As in any mall you get all the brands under one roof. First we went to Monte Carlo to buy some good winter stuff, then we shopped at other outlets.

After roaming there for almost 3 hours i was literally dead tired, you can also say that we shopped till we dropped really. But the experience of shopping in Delhi is one thing that can never be missed out. So if you are also planning to come to Delhi do not forget to plan a trip to various happening shopping centers of Delhi just like i did.

Skopje more expensive than London, Moscow

Household appliances, clothing, footwear and many other products are cheaper in London, Moscow and Athens than in Skopje! Although hard to believe, since Macedonian standard and purchasing power of citizens is lower, our search for various offers on websites and looking at world-famous brands showed perhaps an expected conclusion - Macedonians pay the highest prices for the same products in comparison with neighbors and citizens of European countries.
For example, television brand "Sony", ready for viewing in 3D, with a 117 cm screen size, Macedonians paid 1,720 euros, while it is 1,666 euros for the Croats and in Serbia cost 1,500 euros. The Bulgarians in Sofia paid 950 euros for the same TV, almost half of what Macedonians pay.
The same television brand in European countries can be found on an average for 1,150 euros.
Another example is for a new model of child car seat ("Kiko" brand) in Macedonia is 178 euros, while the Brits and other European countries pay between 120-150 euros.
Set of kitchen cutlery from three pieces of Italian brand "Guzzini" in Macedonia cost 31 euro, while Guzzini's website sells them for 19.5 euros."Timberland" shoes in Skopje are selling between 7,000 and 11,000 denars ($140-$200), while simple visit to Timberland's website will see the same shoes ranging from $70 to $75 dollars.

Skopje and Zagreb become Sister Cities

Skopje mayor Koce Trajanovski and Zagreb mayor Milan Bandic signed a Charter of Friendship and Cooperation a few days ago. The goal of the document is to enable the two cities to have mutual goals and results, with a special focus on enhancement of economic and cultural connections.In this way, exchange of experience in the environmental protection, mutual learning about the culture, history and tradition, cooperation between museums and universities, cooperation in education, urban development and state-owned companies will be enabled.
Moreover, the two cities will cooperate within the framework of international organizations whose members they are. Trajanovski said that Zagreb’s experience in the European integration could significantly help Skopje.

Business centre for cross-border initiatives opens in Stip

Business centre for cross-border initiatives opens in Stip as part of project "Cross-Border Business Networking for Sustainable Growth" financed by IPA Cross-Border Cooperation Programme between the Republic of Bulgaria and Republic of Macedonia.
The work of the business centre, which operates within Centre for Development of Eastern Planning Region, aims at development and improvement of economy and business cooperation between companies directed to strengthening business climate in cross-border regions between Bulgaria and Macedonia.
Centre offers services in the sphere of informing target groups, mapping economic subjects in cross-border region and informing about local business events, also gives information on changes in legal, financial and customs spheres and connection of legal entities from cross-border region aimed at establishing mutual cooperation.
Head of Centre for Development of Eastern Planning Region, Dragica Zdraveva said that by opening of the business centre and the opportunities it offers will bring development of companies in cross-border region and will attract new investments.
Business centre will operate at the territory of Macedonia’s Eastern Planning Region and Bulgaria’s Blagoevgrad region.

Cruise Holidays in India

Cruises are high on the list tourists who are looking for luxurious holiday ideas. And why not? Sailing through the vast expanse of water bodies, cruising offers an experience par excellence and that also amidst the pampering luxuries!.

Though India is not a destination where Sea cruises are highly popular, yet there are umpteen options for those who want to enjoy the journey during their trip. Goa cruises are the top amongst these. Mumbai to Goa cruise is fairly popular with tourists, though the journey itself is quiet short.

 

Apart from this, Andaman cruises are also very famous options. Enjoying the unspoilt beauty of the Anadmans with Cruises that begin from various destinations like Chennai, Kolkata and Vizag.

Sea cruise aside, India has a number of other cruising options available. Like for instance, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy river cruises in Goa- day time, sunset and moonlight. Travellers, specially honeymooners just love the thought of sailing down the river with moon shedding its silvery light on them.

Move a little down south in Kerala, and you have yet another option to enjoy cruise holiday in India. This time it is on the backwaters of Kerala. The backwaters of the Kerala are an intricate channels of water bodies that offer a glimpse into the past of the state as well as the present. Houseboats, or kettuvalams are your home here. Just book them for yourself and enjoy the tranquil beauty that flows past every moment. 

Fairytale festival in "Feniks"

Publishing house "Feniks" hosts a fairytale festival within its New Year's book fair, held December 20-31 in four Skopje-based bookstores.
Children will have the opportunity to acquaint with the most beautiful international and Macedonian fairy tales in the form of coloring and picture books, as well as attend interactive fairytale readings in culture center "Feniks" near Skopje's Universal Hall.
Creative workshops themed 'fairytale' will be held in several kindergartens, along with fairytale books' promotion.

Macedonia Blanketed by Snow

Snowboarder near the Stone Bridge in Skopje

Heavy snowfalls was registered across Macedonia today.
Skopje was covered 10 cm snow cover while eastern and southern Macedonia are expecting up to 30cm of snow.
The ski season is officially open!

Electronic equipment, tobacco and clothes spur Macedonian Economy

In the first two months of the third quarter this year, volume of the total industrial production grew by 3.2 percent year-on-year, which represents growth slowdown, however it still is much better than any country in the Eurozone.
Despite the fact that growth depends significantly on trends in the Eurozone, Macedonian economy can demonstrate great resistance to negative effects of the environment in line with structural changes in economy and expansion of production capacities, which is expected to contribute to additional increase of the Macedonian growth potential.
Production of electronic equipment, tobacco products and clothes has greatly contributed to the economic growth in the past period.

MANU marks Blaze Koneski's 90th birth anniversary

A formal meeting will be held Monday marking the 90th anniversary from the birth of the first president of the Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts (MANU), the academician Blaze Koneski.
Also Koneski's monument, artwork of Macedonian sculptor Tome Serafimovski, will be unveiled in front of MANU's main entrance.
The monument is made of white marble and is 2.30 meters tall. The 1.50 meters tall pedestal is made of white marble by Beton construction company.

Winter arrives in Macedonian Village

Number of Air Passengers Increases in Skopje and Ohrid

In October, the number of passengers on airports in Macedonia increased in comparison with the same period last year.
According to the data published by the Macedonian Ministry of Transport a few days ago, the number of passengers on the Skopje and Ohrid airports reached 57,512, compared to 50,541 passengers last year.
The increase is a result of the increased number of passengers on the Skopje airport, which reported 56,180 passengers, which represents an increase of 17.1 percent. The number of regular flight lines grew as well, by 15.4 percent. In October, there were 689 regular lines compared to 597 lines last year.

Beautiful Beach

Beautiful beaches Klayar is a beach located on the southern coast precisely in Pacitan coast is a tourist attraction in East Java. This beach is located in Spring Village, District Donorojo a distance of ± 30 km southwest of the city Pacitan. Some features of this beach include:

• White sand
• waves of water coming out of the stone (water flute)

 One of the beautiful coast of East Java, Klayar Beach

 Beautiful beaches in Donorojo, Pacitan

Two companies submit bids for construction of hydro plants Cebren and Galiste

Two companies have submitted bids for the construction of hydro power plants Cebren and Galiste.Economy Minister Valon Saraqini said companies PPC from Greece and CWE from China submitted bids until the expiration of Thursday's deadline.
The tendering commission will complete the bids' evaluation by the month-end and submit it to the Government, which is to pass the final decision on the concessions.
PPC has said in its offer that Macedonian Power Plants (ELEM) is to own 28 percent of shares of the future power plants, whereas CWE has offered 40.5 percent. The share percentage offered to ELEM is the main criterion of the tender.
If the concessionaire is selected, the construction of Cebren and Galiste would begin in 1,5 year, following ELEM's completion of access roads and networking of the new power plants.

Bitola Museum nominated for European award "Luigi Micheletti"

National institution Bureau and Museum-Bitola, which pays special attention to museum operations in line with European standards, has been nominated for European award "Luigi Michelleti", presented by the European Museum Academy (EMA).
EMA national coordinator Gordan Nikolov and EMA official Andreja Rihter said 21 European museums compete for the award.
Nikolov said the Bitola museum was the only Macedonian nominee, since it meets the EMA criteria."The Bitola Museum is visible everywhere. One can see everything at its website, which is unfortunately not the case with other museums. It includes practical information for every visitor, which is owed to the excellent management of this national institution", added Nikolov.
Museum director Liljana Hristova said another EMA monitoring team would visit Bitola in the course of January, in light of the final decision for the "Luigi Micheletti" award.
The Luigi Micheletti Award, established in 1996, is the European prize for innovative museums in the world of industry, science and technics.

Madurai - The City of Nectar

Madurai, one of the largest cities of Tamilnadu, has always been the center of attraction for tourists to south India. The city with rich historical legacy has plenty to keep its visitors engaged. However, the grand Meenakshi Sundereshwar Temple walks away with the major share of this attention.

With one of the largest temple complexes in India, the Madurai Meenakshi Temple has found references in ancient Tamil literature. The present structure, though, was built during 1623 to 1655 CE. The presiding deities of this temple is goddess Parvati, who is known as Meenakshi here. She is accompanied by her consort, Lord Shiva, known as Sundereshwar. The grandeur and the significance of the temple also helped it secure a comfortable entry into the top 30 nominees of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Other then the Meenakshi Temple, other tourist places to visit in Madurai includes Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, Thirumalai Nayak Mahal, Koodal Azhagar Temple, The Gandhi Museum, Manalur, Annamalai and Nagamalai. Check out Madurai Tourism if you want to know more about these tourist places to visit in the city.


Tour Packages For Madurai
Temple Tour of Tamilnadu
Duration : 09 Nights / 10 Days
Cities : Chennai - Mahabalipuram - Tirchi - Tanjore - Rameshwaram - Madurai - Kanyakumari

The Six Abodes of Lord Muruga Tour
Duration : 06 Nights / 07 Days
Cities : Chennai - Tirutani - Palani -Tiruchchendur- Madurai - Tanjore - Chennai

Golden Triangle Package

Golden Triangle Tour Package

Highlights:
Delhi – Agra – Jaipur- Pushkar – Mandawa – Bikaner – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Udaipur - Delhi

Duration: 13 Nights/14 Days

Detailed Itinerary:
Enjoy Golden Triangle Vacation With Rajasthan

Day 1: Delhi
On 1st Day you will arrive at Delhi International Airport and transferred to the hotel for the overnight stay.

Day 2: Delhi
On the 2nd Day of the tour you will be guided to some renowned monuments of Delhi. These historical monuments are the perfect example of the ancient architecture, reminding you of the bygone era. Take a glimpse of the important historical sites such as Qutab Minar, Humayun Tomb, Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, India Gate, Parliament House and President House. In the eveving get back to the hotel for the overnight stay.

Day 3: Agra
The 3rd of your Golden Triangle Tour Package takes you to the another important historical city of India.- Agra renowned for the world most beautiful monument Taj Mahal- the epitome of love. You will surely love this tour. Enjoy photography at Taj Mahal, you will love to capture its different modes as it changes its shades all through the day with the sunlight. Apart from Taj Mahal there is another heritage site known as Red Fort, located on the other side of the river Yamuna. From the top of the fort one gets the beautiful view of the Taj Mahal. Overnight stay at Agra Hotel.

Day 4: Jaipur
Today you need to get up early in the morning as you will head toward Jaipur – the capital city of Rajasthan. En route visiting to Fatehpur Sikri. Check in to the hotel booked in advance for you. Halt and than you will be guided for the small sightseeing tour during the evening to the City Place and Hawa Mahal. By the time you will be very much tired after the hectic journey, so get back to the hotel for the overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 5: Jaipur-Pushkar
In the morning get ready for the exciting journey to the magnificent Amber Fort, that can be easily reached through elephant ride. Explore the stunning architecture of the fort constructed in Mughal and Rajput styles. Your Golden Triangle Tour Package India becomes much more exciting with the visit to Pushkar city – the city of only Brahma Temple in the country that falls on the 5th day of the tour. Overnight stay in Pushkar.

Day 6: Pushkar
Get up early in the morning and get ready for the spiritual journey to the holy city of Pushkar. Explore the Pushkar Ghats and pay homage in sacred Brahma temple and Savitri temple. Explore the religious facets of the city and take a pleasant walk on the streets of beautiful city of Rajasthan.Overnightstay in Pushkar.

Day7: Pushkar-Mandawa
Early drive to another important city in Rajasthan - Mandawa. Check into the hotel and start your sightseeing tour in Mandawa - Lacchmangarh, Nawalgarh and Jhunjhunu. Here you are also invited to explore the magnificent havelis. Overnight stay in Mandawa.

Day 8: Bikaner
Another exciting day of the Golden Triangle Tour Packages begins at Bikaner where you get to explore its wonders such as Junagarh Fort, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal.

Day 9: Bikaner-Jaisalmer
After a traditional breakfast in Bikaner in the morning drive to Jaisalmer. Check in at the hotel and after taking rest for few hours, get ready to take a tour to some vast expanses of sand dunes and enjoy bumpy camel ride to explore the glorious beauty of the surrounding area.

Day 10: Jaisalmer
You have another day to explore the ultimate beauty of the desert city of Jaisalmer – take a sightseeing tour to - Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli and Salim Singh-ki-haveli.

Day 11: Jaisalmer-Jodhpur
After Jaisalmer come another historical city of Rajasthan known as Jodhpur. Take a glimpse of some fascinating historical monuments such as Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (flower Palace) and Sukh Mahal (pleasure Palace). During your stay in Jodhpur you can also shop for the exquisite handicrafts articles.

Day 12: Jodhpur-Udaipur
On the 12th day of the tour you will be visiting Udaipur. Upon reaching there check into the hotel and spend some leisure time. Evening sightseeing and Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 13: Udaipur-Delhi
Udaipur is referred to as 'city of lakes'. Discover its attrcations such as Jag Niwas (lake Palace), Jag Mandir and City Palace. The city is renowned for its miniature paintings amongst the travelers.

Day 14: Delhi- Onward Destination
In the morning drive back to Delhi and carry on with the further journey.

Macedonia's tourism potentials presented in Amsterdam

Amsterdam

Macedonia's tourism potentials and Macedonian wines were presented Tuesday before Dutch tour-operators in Amsterdam.
The promotion, hosted by Macedonian Ambassador to the Netherlands Nikola Dimitrov, was attended by 30 tour-operators that are already offering Macedonia as a tourism destination, but also ones showing potential interest.
"The Netherlands is one of our main target markets. Until 2010, Karatanova Tours was in charge of the Dutch market, but following the introduction of the subsidy programme, other tour-operators have shown interest, arranging charter-flights to Macedonia, even from Belgium", said Jordan Trajkov, director of the Agency for Support and Promotion of Tourism.
Ambassador Nikola Dimitrov said there is a realistic chance that offer for Dutch tourists increases in 2012.The Amsterdam event was supported by Dutch governmental agency "Holland Gateway".

Number of Foreign Tourists in Macedonia keeps Increasing

In October 2011, the number of tourists in Macedonia amounted to 49,379 and the number of bed-nights reached 119,198, informed the Macedonian State Statistical Office.
These figures show that the number of tourists increased by 17 percent and the number of bed-nights by 24.1 percent compared to October last year.In the same period, the number of Macedonian tourists dropped by 5.8 percent, while the number of foreign tourists increased by 35.2 percent.
Year-on-year, the number of bed-nights of Macedonian tourists increased by 6.1 percent despite the decrease of the number of tourists, and the number of bed-nights of foreign tourists grew by 41.2 percent. Analyses on what this really means for the state budget will be published in a week.

Macedonia has a Trade Surplus with Belgium

Belgium is one of rare countries with which Macedonia generates trade surplus.
According to the latest statistical data, the surplus amounted to USD 50 million in 2010 and USD 14 million in the first nine months of this year.
In terms of the total trade with the EU, trade with Belgium accounts for 4 percent. According to the Macedonian State Statistical Office, Macedonia exports tobacco, vegetables, ferronickel, textile products and sugar to Belgium.
On the other hand, motor vehicles, oils, iron, steel and plastic products are imported from Belgium.

Honeymoon in Goa

It is where the youth of the country head to whenever they plan to have fun with friends. Ditto with children who jump at the slightest mention of a holiday in this destination. Similarly for honeymooners too, more than any other place, it is this destination that steals the show from other destinations in India.

Welcome to Goa! The perfect destination for a honeymoon in India.

With marriage season in India at its peak right now, planning a honeymoon trip is quiet obviously on the top for newly married or about to be married couples. And if you are amongst them, probably you would want to know whys and whats of honeymoon in Goa. So here's a quick why.

Being a coastal destination means, Goa has a number of beaches to visit - some, where fun and frolic are the bywords and, other where peace and privacy are the norm. So couples can enjoy both as per their mood. Moreover the water sports activities like swimming, surfing, snorkelling, diving, etc, make Goa even more attractive for honeymooners.

The second most popular reason why honeymoon in Goa is such a good idea is the rocking nightlife. Couples can dance their night out in the discos of Goa.

 

Cruises in Goa add another feather to the cap of Goa honeymoon tourism. 

Apart from the ones mentioned above, there are a number of other reasons for opting a honeymoon tour in Goa. Check them out here - Honeymoon in Goa. Or simply go ahead and book a Goa honeymoon tour package with Goa Tourism

Sarnath Tours - Famous Buddha Temple Tours

Discover the blissful city of 'Sarnath' where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon to his five chosen disciples. The city of Sarnath holds an important place among the Buddhist pilgrims, who come here from all around the world. Located just 10 km from the holy city of Hindus i.e Varanasi, Sarnath is considered to be a holy place for the Buddhist monks and their followers.

In the recent times with a increase in the number of Buddhist followers, Sarnath has gained much prominence among them. There are lots of travel places here that you can plan to visit during your Sarnath travel. Some of them are as follows:

Sarnath Stupas: Sarnath is the city of famous Buddhist stupas such as Dhamekh stupa and Choukhandi Stupa. There are considered very sacred places for the Buddhist pilgrims. And it is also believed that some of Lord Buddha's relics are retained here that you can see during your visit.

Sarnath Temple: Digambara Jain Temple is a famous Jain temple visited by thousands of Jain pilgrims every year. Located very near to Dhamekh Stupa, this temple is said to be where Shreyanshnath, the 11th Jain tirthankara was born.

Other sites that you can visit here are:

Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Asoka Pillar

Deer Park

Belgian JetAirFly to Connect Brussels and Skopje

New air connection will be established between Skopje and Brussels by Belgian airlinie JetAirFly.

The ticket cost is set at 79 euros. Flights are scheduled to start on May 11, 2012.

JetAirFly from Brussels will operate in a 'triangle' fashion in it that it is first going to land in Ohrid and then Skopje (Brussels - Ohrid- Skopje).

Kaizer Chiefs close 13. Taksirat festival

British indie-rock band "Kaizer Chiefs" closed the 13. Taksirat music festival with a thunderous performance in a packed "Metropolis Arena" at Skopje Fair on Saturday evening.

Kaizer Chiefs came to Skopje straight from Paris prior to their tour that includes over 20 concerts. The popular English band came for the first time in Macedonia, promoting its 'best of' and latest album "The Future is Medieval".

Besides Kaizer Chiefs, Taksirat's final evening included domestic bands Verka and T.B.Traceri, as well as Clawfinger, Asian Dub Foundation, Fat Joe and Buraka som sistema.

Over the past week, audiences had the chance to see a number of musicians and bands, including Dubioza Kolektiv, Diskobajagi, B-real, Psycho Realm, Atari Teenage Riot, S.A.R.S., Jaya The cat, Kawasaki 3p, Nezni Dalibor, Rise of Artificial, General Woo feat, Lil Bear & Dirty Hairy, Canon, Glasnom, Kanton 6, Project 2501, Raw’N’Wicked, DJ Slave, Scratch That Drum, Shutka Roma Rap, Kreepr and Selector Lazy Face.

In the course of its 13-year existence, Taksirat festival has presented exceptional musical names, including Juliete Lewis, Moonspel, Elemental, Hladno Pivo, Guano Apes, Kiril Dzajkovski, Delinquent Habits, Eye Cue, Weding dub., Fun Lovin' Criminals, The Stranglers, Wailers, Iggy pop& The Stooges, DJ Timo Maas, Тiga, The Roots, Marky Ramone, Swayzak, Neville Staple (the Specials), Manu Chao La Ventura and many more.

St. Clement Award goes to Archeologist

The commission in charge of allocating the St. Clement of Ohrid state award has decided upon this year's recipients in the field of education, culture and art.

Archaeologist Dragi Mitrevski is the winner of the 2011 St. Clement of Ohrid award for his achievements in the area of education, the Ministry of Culture says in a press release.

In the field of culture and art, the recognition is presented to academician and writer Luan Starova and painter Nikola Fidanoski.

The accolade will be presented to this year's laureates at a ceremony on the Day of St. Clement of Ohrid (Dec. 8).

The St. Clement of Ohrid state award is the highest recognition for life achievements in the field of education, culture, art, health-care, sports, environment protection and social activities.

Macedonian Construction Companies Enter New Markets

Macedonian construction companies are considered one of the best in Europe. Because of this the volume of new work has increased in Slovenia, Albania, Croatia, Italy and Ukraine, whereas on other markets, Macedonian companies reported a decrease. On the other hand, Montenegro and France are new markets.

Construction companies conducted construction work worth MKD 1.7 billion in Macedonia in the first nine months.

This is 8.9 percent less than in the same period of 2010. According to the data of the Macedonian State Statistical Office, construction companies agreed construction work worth MKD 2 billion on foreign markets. This is 48.9 percent less than in the same period last year due to financial crisis.

Macedonia Enhances Cooperation with Argentina

At the presentation of the Argentinean economy and market at the Macedonian Chamber of Economy, future cooperation between Macedonia and Argentina was promoted.

This cooperation represents entry into the South American economic community MERKOSUR, which has a market of 298 million customers. 

This was said by Guillermo Salvador Azrak, Argentinean ambassador in Sofia in charge of Macedonia. He explained that MERKOSUR’s full members are also Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay, while Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela and Columbia are affiliated members.

Azrak added that there is a lot more manoeuvring room and possibilities for improvement of economic cooperation between the two countries.

Kromberg & Schubert in Bitola

Germany-based company Kromberg & Schubert will start building a plant in Bitola in December. The long awaited plant for production of car cables will start employing workers as of May. At first, it will hire 500 people and then the number will grow to 2,500 people.
Moreover, another six investments in Bitola are expected. They pertain to construction of hotels, but some investors are also interested in timber, food and milk industry. In the meantime, the government’s team presented investment possibilities in Macedonia last week.
Several Austrian and German companies have already announced that they are interested in investing in Macedonia. Allegedly, Siemens and BMW are among the interested investors. Moreover, the government team has already agreed cooperation with Teksport, which already has two plants in Macedonia.

Japan, Macedonia agree to boost tourism, study, business exchanges

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and his visiting Macedonian counterpart Nikola Gruevski agreed Wednesday to boost their countries' tourism, study and business exchanges, Japanese officials said.
Gruevski, the first Macedonian prime minister to visit Japan, voiced hope that his visit will strengthen bilateral ties, after Noda thanked the Balkan country for its aid for Japan in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
Gruevski also expressed his country's intention to open an embassy in Japan, the Foreign Ministry said.At the outset of their meeting, which was open to the press, Noda assured his visitor that "reconstruction in disaster-hit areas is underway and the supply chains have almost fully recovered.
"Macedonia, which gained its independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991, is aiming for economic development through foreign capital.

German Companies to invest in Macedonia

Several companies from Germany have announced their investments in Macedonia. The agreements are being finalized, but the Macedonian government team has not revealed the names of the German companies yet.
Allegedly, they operate in automobile industry. As soon as the agreements are completed, it will be known which companies responded positively to the government promotion of Macedonia as an attractive business destination.
Interest of German investors has been steadfast and Macedonia can expect more investments from Germany in the coming period, says Macedonian PM Nikola Gruevski.
The coming period is very important for the country. Two corridors, Corridor 8 and Corridor 10 have to be completed, economy minister Vladimir Pesevski said.

Serbia - Mladenovac

Serbia - Mladenovac

Austrian company to launch 1 million euro investment in Vinica

Austria's Texport company in 2012 will invest one million euros for construction of a factory manufacturing workwear. The investor unveiled its final decision on Tuesday at the Macedonian-Austrian business forum held in Vienna. About 150 companies interested in investing in Macedonia attended the event.
The plant will be located in Vinica and is expected to open jobs for 200 people. Production is planned to be launched by the end of 2012, MIA reports from Vienna. Company's managing director Otmar Schneider said that land had been purchased and that project's realisation would be conducted in the winter. This is the third investment in Macedonia by Austria's Texport.
"We've started in 1999 in Skopje with 60 employees, now there are 200... The Kocani plant also employs 200 workers and the new investment is expected to open 200 jobs," Schneider.
He praised the working conditions and workforce in Macedonia, saying it was qualified for production of quality garments. Company's products are mainly exported throughout Europe as well as in South America and Saudi Arabia.Vice PM for Economic Affairs, Vladimir Pesevski said the investment was a proof that Government's strategy to attract investments was prolific. "Forums serve for establishing initial contacts, for triggering company interest and for wrapping up negotiations with companies that have already decided to invest in Macedonia," Pesevski stated.
The Vice PM said that Government's team had held talks with other firms in Vienna and expressed hopes that such positive news would be also announced in the future.
Macedonia's investment potentials were presented before Austrian businessmen, namely in manufacturing car components, the energy sector, IT, textile, agriculture...
Austria is one of the leading investors in Macedonia with an influx of foreign investments of 370 million euros between 1997 and 2010 and takes the prime spot according to the influx of foreign direct investments from 2005 to 2010. This year, the influx of investments stands at 10 million euros. Austrian capital has been invested in telecommunications, banking sector, insurance and other areas.

Numbers of Hotels in Macedonia Increased by 51.2%

In the period of 12 years, from 1999 to 2010, the number of hotels in Macedonia increased by 51.2 percent, from 82 to 124 hotels.
On the other hand, the number of hotel rooms dropped by 4.5 percent, from 5,916 to 5,651, in the same period, while the number of beds decreased by 13 percent, from 14,564 to 12,734, show the data of the analysis on Macedonian hotels in terms of change, which was carried out by Mitre Avramovski of Ohrid Tourism Faculty.
Reasons for such a situation are a chaotic transition and shutting down of numerous hotels built during the period of former Yugoslavia as well as construction and opening of smaller hotels.

Ooty Tourism - A Heavenly Holiday

Need a vacation that is rejuvenating and instills a sense of joy in you? If yes, then Ooty or Udhagamandalam India is just the right option for you. Blessed with abundant natural beauty, Udhagamandalam or Ooty oozes freshness from its every nook and corner. From the first to last minute of your trip, you will feel highly elated at having chosen Ooty India for your tourism.

Where is Ooty?

Ooty is a hill station located in the state of Tamil Nadu in south India. It occupies the area that is 7,347 feet above sea level on the Nilgiri Hills. It is around 105 kms away from the city of Coimbatore and a little above 550 kms from the capital city of Tamil Nadu – Chennai.

Places to Visit in Ooty

Ooty Lake – A product of the efforts of Mr. John Sullivan, the district collector of Ooty in 1825, Ooty Lake pulls visitors with its beauty as well as a couple of activities option available. The lake which is 40 feet deep invites you to enjoy boating and fishing. Though the activities to be enjoyed here are not dangerous yet a proper permission and a bit of precaution is required.

The Doddabetta Peak – Enjoy a trek tour to the highest peak in the Nilgiri hills on your Ooty tourism. The Doddabetta Peak, at an altitude of 2623 m, offers spectacular sceneries to those who take the effort to reach its zenith

How to Reach Ooty

By Air – Coimbatore at a distance of 105 kms from Ooty serves the purpose of nearest airport to Ooty. Since Coimbatore receives flights from all major destinations of India, Ooty too gets well connected with them.

By Rail – For those who are travelling by train, the Nilgiri Express from Chennai reaches till Mettupalyam from where either a bus or a steam train can be used to reach Ooty. For much better rail service, Coimbatore is yet again a better option.

By Road – Ooty can be conveniently reached by road from different cities of not only Tamil Nadu but also other states like Karnataka, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh. There are also regular bus services available from destinations like Bangalore, Mysore, Coimbatore, Calicut, Kanyakumari, Thanjavur, Tirupathi and Cochin.

Want to Know More About Ooty Tourism, Click Here - Ooty Tourism

Want to take up a tour to Ooty, check out this tour package - Tamilnadu Hill Stations Trip

 

Albanian tour-operators, journalists visit Macedonia

Popova Sapka

Economy Minister Valon Saraqini and Macedonian Ambassador to Tirana Vele Trpevski met Monday with tour-operators and journalists from the Republic of Albania, who pay a visit to Macedonia within project "Promotion of Macedonia's Winter Tourism in Albania".
"Macedonia-Albania cooperation in the tourism field has focused on stay of Albanian tourists in the Ohrid-Struga region, as well as vacations of Macedonian nationals on the Adriatic coast. This project aims at offering Albanians our winter resorts. Moreover, we want to create a joint tourism product for the global tourist by combining their seaside with our lakes and mountains", said Minister Saraqini.
The Albanian guests were presented with the possibilities of winter resorts Mavrovo and Popova Sapka. They also met with Macedonian tour-operators and representatives of country's tourism associations.

Skopje hosts Beaujolais Nouveau Day

Beaujolais Nouveau Day, organised by the French Cultural Center in Skopje, was marked yesterday in the capital.
The event, which aims to present this red wine fermented for only a few weeks and to establish a nice and long French tradition in Macedonia, was opened by French ambassador to Macedonia Jean-Claude Schlumberger.
Beaujolais Nouveau is released for sale on the third Thursday of November and the day is celebrated in many French-speaking and non French-speaking countries.
The Skopje event was held after a hiatus of several years. Managers Dimitar Pavlevski and Aleksandar Vuckovski at the ceremony were introduced into the Beaujolais Nouveau order for their efforts in affirming French-Macedonian relations.

Both Mak Airports register increase in travellers

The number of passengers transported through Skopje airport "Alexander the Great" and Ohrid-based "St.Paul the Apostle" in October has increased by 18.9 percent compared to the same month in 2010.
A total of 74,703 passengers were transported this October compared to last year's 62,876, said the Ministry of Transport and Communications on Thursday.

The same trend was registered in September, with the number of passengers rising by 25.4 percent compared to last year, i.e. 82,641 to 65,878.

Macedonia Presenting Its Folklore in China

Macedonia is promoting its folklore in China this week, ending in November 19.
Exhibit "Macedonian Folklore" of Gordana Vrencoska will have the honor the open the event at the Beijing Jintai Art Museum. The exhibit will display photos, items, graphics, along with traditional folk costumes.
Minister of Culture Elizabeta Kanceska-Milevska, who is set to open the display, will sign Wednesday a cooperation program for the period 2012-2017 with Chinese counterpart Cai Wu.
In the course of the official visit to Beijing, Minister Kanceska-Milevska will visit several national institutions and meet with chairman of the China Artists Association.
On Thursday, prominent folk ensemble "Tanec" will give a concert in Beijing Century hall, followed by another one in the city of Dalian.

Ohrid's St. Paul the Apostle is Best in Class of Smaller Airports

Ohrid airport: Saint Paul the Apostle

According to the International Airport Council, Ohrid-based St. Paul the Apostle airport is the absolute winner in the group of small airports with up to five million passengers a year. In comparison with September 2011, goods transport growth reached 198.1 percent in a year.
The two Macedonian airports are managed by Turkish TAV. Istanbul-based Kemal Atatturk Airport, which is also managed by TAV, reported the highest growth in goods transport in its group of airports with more than 25 million passengers a year. Leading European airports (Amsterdam, Frankfurt and London) recorded losses in international goods transport (6, 5.7 and 3.7 percent).

"Mothers" wins Minsk festival award

Film "Mothers" of Milco Mancevski won award "Film as Artistic Phenomenon" at the Minsk film festival "Listapad", which is its fifth international award.
"I did not even know the film was in competition. It received enormous approval, I had lengthy talks with the audience and interviews", said director Mancevski.
"Mothers", a Macedonian-French-Bulgarian co-production, has been included among 20 films for the European Film Award.

Voyager Inde (India Travel)

Every time i look out of my office window, i just have one thing in mind, i wish i could go on a long holiday break. I am sure everyone who is busy in their professional life have the same thought in their mind. And its true in every sense, we all want a break in our life. But before planning holidays we have so much confusion in our mind like where to go, what to see, where to stay and likewise other things.

I am sure you can identify with this very well. For this i want to share my experience with you. Last month me and my friend planned a trip to India and i must say that it was the best decision that we took. I was awestruck with the beauty of India. Especially Ladakh, i think it is the most beautiful place to visit in the world. We stayed for almost a week and i must say that it was the best time i have ever spent in my life.

Our next stop was Kerala situated in the extreme corner of the South India. The serenity and the peaceful atmosphere was simply amazing. A houseboat ride at the Kovalam backwaters is one experience that i will never forget.

You know i have so much to write about this trip but i am actually falling short of words. But if you also want a break like this and want to relax in the lap of nature plan a trip to India (voyager inde) and loose yourself in the magic of this wonderful country.

Villages in Rajasthan - Popular Rajasthan Villages

Villages in Rajasthan – Famous Villages of Rajasthan 

Away from the intense bright royal cities the villages in Rajasthan are known for their own charm and simplicity. Although you may not find the grand palaces, gardens and forts in the Rajasthan villages, yet the you may find there the most basic features of the state, that represent the true Rajasthan. Kulbhata village in Rajasthan and Bahid village in Rajasthan are the most searched and visited villages in Rajasthan.

Popular Villages in Rajasthan: Some of the worth visit Rajasthan village list and their attractions are below:

Shekhawati: Shekhawati is located in the triangular location faormed among Delhi, Jaipur and Bikaner.
Attractions: The Open Air Art Gallery, havelis and palaces like Mandawa, Fatehpur, Nawalgarh etc.

Bundi: This beautiful place is located 36 km from Kota, which is enriched with unexplored historical wealth.
Attractions: The Palace, Chhattar Mahal, Ratan Daulat, Sukh Mahal

Khimsar: Khimsar is a renowned Rajasthani village, located 92 km from Jodhpur district. Nestled at the edge of Thar desert it is the Rajasthan village, which is not to be missed during your Rajasthan tour.
Attractions: Oasis and Khimsar Fort. It is one most popular Rajasthan forts, which is now converted into a Heritage Hotel.

Deogarh: Deogarh is located 80 miles away from Udaipur on the boundary of Mewar. As it is nestled at 2100 m height, hence it is comparatively cooler than other village in Rajasthan.
Attractions: Deogarh Mahal, Dashawtar Temple, Manastambha and Chanderi etc.

Mandawa, Neemrana, Jhalawar, Ranakpur, Samode, Mandore, Barmer, Jhunjhunu, Samode are other famous village in Rajasthan. So plan a Rajasthan tour package and reveal the explore the charm of Rajasthan villages.

Skopje observes its Liberation Day

Many cultural, humanitarian and sports events are to mark Sunday the Liberation Day - 13 November - of Macedonia's capital - Skopje.

On the occasion, the '13 November' award will be presented at the cinema 'Frosina' to this year laureates: PhD Nikita Sekutovski, Prof. Ljubinka Bosotova - education; Bojku Fejzi and Dimitar Masevski - art; Boris Pop Gjorcev - journalisam; Bosko Zaborski - sports; Aleksandar Janevski - humanitarian activities; Mico Popovski - business; the Center for Environmental Reaserch and Information 'Eco-Svest'; as well as students - Ivan Antovski, Tasko Smilevski and Aleksandar Stepanovski.

Early today, Skopje Mayor Koce Trajanovski met with a group of veterans, who fought for Skopje liberation in 1944.

Skopje in November 2011

State, diplomatic delegations are also set to lay fresh flowers on the monuments of Skopje Liberators, Partisan Cemetery and General 'Mihajlo Apostolski' monument.

The program also includes a Red Cross blood donation campaign and several sports events.

Skopje was liberated on 13 November 1944 by Yugoslav Partisan units of the Macedonian National Liberation Army. Soon after, Skopje became the capital of the newly established People's Republic of Macedonia within the Yugoslavia.

In 1963 the city suffered considerable damage from a major earthquake, which killed over 1,000 people. International financial aid poured into Skopje in order to help rebuild the city, which since then has been known as the 'City of Solidarity'.

PM Gruevski meets British businessmen in London

Nikola Gruevski

Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski presented yesterday the opportunities for investing in Macedonia to British businessmen in London at an event organized by the British Business Group Macedonia, chaired by Ray Power, the Government said Saturday in a press release.

Traditionally good political relations between Macedonia and Britain, especially affirmed by London's support of Macedonia's EU, NATO integration processes, will also contribute to boosting the bilateral economic cooperation, Gruevski said at the presentation.

The Government, he said, has been working on improving the business climate and working conditions for both domestic and foreign companies in a stable macroeconomic environment.

In this respect Gruevski mentioned the World Bank Doing Business report, which for several years in a row has been ranking Macedonia among the best reformers and attractive business destinations.

Gruevski also referred to the technological industrial development zones and benefits they were offering. They have already welcomed the plants of British companies Johnson Controls and Johnson Metty. For the last four months there has been an intensive investment activity in these zones, namely Johnson Controls is opening yet another plant, while the Italian company 'TeknoHose', US 'Kemet Electronics', Russia's 'Protec Group'  and India's 'Motherson Group' have been working on the realization of their investments.

Prince Michael of Kent, who honored the presentaion with his presence, said he was fascinated by the opportunities for investing in Macedonia and urged British businessmen to learn more about them.

At a separate meeting Gruevski and Prince Michael of Kent shared opinions on possibilities for further development of the Macedonian-British cooperation.

Macedonian Culture Days' opens in Osijek

'Macedonian Culture Days', organised by the Macedonian Cultural Society Braca Miladinovci based in Osijek, opened at the Croatian National Theatre in Osijek on Saturday evening with a play performed by the Anton Panov Theatre from Strumica.
The event, to last until December 1, includes an ethnological exhibition, documentary films, a presentation of a book by Vasil Tocinovski, and a concert of classical music.

Macedonia hosts Days of Ukrainian Culture

Ukrainian, Macedonian Deputy Culture Ministers Yuri Bogutsky and Dragan Nedeljkovic will have the honor Saturday to the Days of Ukrainian Culture in Macedonia.
The manifestation kicks off with the exhibition of art holograms 'Golden Treasury of Ukraine'. The event's program includes the presentation of Mykola Maschenko's and Valeriy Yamburskyy's films 'Bogdan Zinoviy Khmelnytsky' and 'The Day of Defeated' respectively, as well as a concert of the Ukrainian national folk dance ensemble Pavlo Virsky.
On Monday film fans in Skopje will also have an opportunity to see the film 'Platon Angel' - work of art of Ivan Voytyuk.

Skopje's Old Theater to be opened with play by Jordan Plevnes

Skopje, 11 November 2011 (MIA) - With the premiere of "Eternal House" - a play by Jordan Plevnes - Skopje's reconstructed Old Theatre will be formally opened in 2012, Culture Minister Elizabeta Kanceska-Milevska told a press conference on Friday.
Jordan Plevnes' text was selected at an open competition for a play which will formally open the Skopje Old Theatre. 13 plays were submitted at the 6-month competition announced by the Ministry of Culture.
The jury responsible for selecting the best play was comprised of academic Georgi Stardelov, academic Luan Starova, university professor Jelena Luzina, actor Petar Temelkovski and theater director Dejan Projkoski.
Jordan Plevnes is a prolific playwright and poet, whose works have been translated and published around the globe. He has been awarded with France's Order of the Knight of Arts and Literature.
"His text 'Eternal House' is based on the abstract and deeply humane notion of the house as an ideal home and focuses on the subject of constant affirmation of one's own identity," the minister said.

Monuments Of North India

Monuments of North India are a brilliant example of the rich ancient Indian heritage. Most of the monuments located in this part of the country, reflect the glorious past of India and the rulers who once ruled this land. The exquisite architecture and design of these historical monuments, are popular world wide. That is the one reason that travelers not only from India but also from different corners of the world come here.

These days these historical monuments of North India are preserved and conserved by ASI. Even some of them are declared world heritage site by UNESCO. The list below gives a list of some of the major monuments of northern India.

Taj Mahal

Agra Fort

Fatehpur Sikri

Red Fort

Qutub Minar

Umaid Bhawan Palace

City Palace Jaipur

Golden Temple

Kanceska-Milevska reports on Ministry of Culture's activities in 100 days of new government

The Ministry of Culture has been continuing to realize its program towards improving the cultural environment in Macedonia and affirming the country's best cultural values across the globe.
Reporting on the activities in the 100 days since the establishment of the new government, Culture Minister Elizabeta Kanceska-Milevska said the ministry was functioning in line with clearly set goals--support and nourishment of the traditional and contemporary cultural values, investment in the infrastructure, restoration, conservation and promotion of the cultural heritage, archaeological researches...
Listing the realized projects, she mentioned the new Museum of Macedonian Struggle for Statehood and Independence, overhauling of the memorial house of Miladinovci Brothers in Struga, the Memorial Museum '11 Oktomvri' in Prilep, opening of the City Museum in Kriva Palanka.
In regard to publishing, she mentioned the promotion of 130 volumes of Macedonian Literature, translated in English.
Referring to cultural events, Kancevska-Milevska singled out the observance of the 50the anniversary of 'Struga Poetry Evenings'.Speaking about the international cooperation, Kanceska-Milevska said the 'Days of Macedonian Culture' were organized in Saint Petersburg and Tallinn - the European Capital of Culture 2011.
Furthermore, the Skopje-based National and University Library took part at Frankfurt Book Fair, Macedonia became a UNESCO Executive Board member and Tose Proeski Memorial House won the People's Choice Award.
The Ministry's future projects include a promotion of the new 'Old Theater', Philharmonic Hall, construction of a Film Center, digitization of the audio-visual cultural heritage.
The Ministry will also work on drafting several laws and a national strategy for cultural development, Kanceska-Milevska said.

Dutch Co. to Design new Skopje Railway Station

Dutch advisory firm Grontmij will design a project for a 2.6 million euro ($3.57 million) reconstruction of Skopje’s main railway station, Macedonia's transport ministry said on Tuesday.Grontmij will also prepare the tender documents for contractor and supervisor of the station's overhaul, the ministry said in a statement sent to MINA.