Three years ago, the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia awarded Mr. Nikola (Kole) Angelovski a certificate of appreciation as the most active senior member of our Chamber. And until his last breath, with enthusiasm, love, and dedication—almost as if he were just starting his career—he remained actively involved in the company Ilino Promet, where his vast experience, knowledge, and business acumen served as an example and motivation for his closest colleagues.

In 2022, when I presented the certificate on behalf of the Chamber, Mr. Kole emphasized:

"Even in times of crisis, there is always a solution. The most important asset of any company is its human capital—a priceless treasure that must constantly be educated and developed."

Mr. Nikola Angelovski was 93 years old and had 74 years of professional experience. Born in the village of Krushje, in the Resen region, he named the company Ilino Promet in 1991 after the neighboring village Ilino, located beneath the beautiful Galichica Mountain.

Angelovski was a model of calmness, wisdom, and knowledge. Every conversation with him offered a new life lesson. The message he always emphasized was that we must be patient and approach work with a positive attitude and know-how. He had a wide circle of business partners, friends, and associates. Whenever a large corporate event was held—such as one at Makstil, a company he strongly supported—Mr. Kole was always invited as a special guest of honor. He used to record important events and would often send me clips from radio or television broadcasts—either recent ones or those from the former Yugoslav republic. He was a living archive of significant events, moments, and initiatives.

He always conveyed that only unity and synergy, support from all involved parties and institutions, and hard work are the formula for success—especially in these unpredictable and challenging times for doing business.

Ilino Promet Skopje is a privately owned company, founded in 1991, focused on trading ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy. The company is an active member of the Economic Chamber of N Macedonia and ranks among the top 100 exporting companies in the country. In 2007, it expanded with a branch—Ilino Promet Kavadarci—operating in the wood industry. At its sawmill in Kavadarci, the company produces logs, pallets, parquet, and other processed wood products. Most of its products—primarily logs—are exported, and for a time the main destination was Oman, where the company had a reliable partner.

On behalf of the Economic Chamber of Macedonia, and from me personally, I extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Angelovski’s family.