Businessmen from Chalkidiki, Greece have demonstrated interest for cooperation with Macedonian companies in the field of construction, food industry, agriculture, textile, real estate etc.

They attended Friday a business forum at the Economic Chamber of Macedonia, where they established direct communication with Macedonian companies.

"We believe there is lots of room for cooperation and that is why we have 35 companies here today. We believe meetings with local companies will yield good results. This is the goal of the two chambers", said Georgios Gilis, chairman of the Chalkidiki Chamber of Commerce.

Gilis does not think that Greek investors would withdraw from Macedonia if the situation worsened in Greece, believing they would overcome problems.

"Greek export has risen in the recent period, and on the other hand the European bank says it would continue to support Greek banks. Therefore, I believe there will be no problems in this regard", stressed Gilis.

Asked if the name row has an effect on bilateral cooperation, he said politicians should focus on that issue, but the businessmen urge both governments to sit on the negotiating table.

"As businessmen we call upon both governments to negotiate and I am certain that sincere talks will give good results to everyone's satisfaction", added Gilis.

The next meeting between the Macedonian and Greek businessmen will be held in Chalkidiki.