Location Bratislava On April 30, 2013 the Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO) organized seminar "Promoting investment and employment in the regions" at the Ministry of Economy of the SR. The seminar was intended for representatives of municipalities as well as companies operating in the Slovak Republic. Tomáš Malatinský , the Minister of Economy of the SR opened the seminar. In his speech he highlighted the efforts of the Ministry of Economy of the SR to create favorable legal and business environment for investors, especially by setting and implementing transparent rules. "The intention is to create preconditions for implementation of investment aid for a wider range of businesses, and thereby encourage businesses to be active in resolving local unemployment." said Malatinský. The seminar was attended by nearly 100 entrepreneurs and representatives of municipalities, who were welcomed by the Minister together with Milan Muška, the Executive Vice-President of the Association of Municipalities of Slovakia and Marian Moravčík , SARIO Executive Manager. Moravčík stressed that Slovakia is currently considered to be an ideal destination for manufacturing plants, with a clear potential for high added value investments and projects in technology. He identified the key factors for success being high productivity and skilled labour. "Among SARIO´s top priorities is reduction of regional and social disparities by placing new investments and encouraging existing investors to expand their production especially in regions with high unemployment rate."said Moravčík. The speakers discussed current issues such as: state incentives, subsidies under the Ministry of Economy, new programs for Structural Funds 2014-2020, changes in active labor policy measures. A success story of cooperation between municipality and investors was presented by Mr. Kokonly. SARIO aims to increase investment inflow to Slovakia and support export potential of Slovak companies. The agency creates suitable platform of first contact between representatives of municipalities, potential investors and SARIO expert team.
