Prishtina, 02.11.2012 – Investment in education is an issue of particular importance for the country, and innovation is the process of creating new businesses with new product segments and application of new technologies, said the Minister of Economic Development, Besim Beqaj.

Beqaj made these comments today in the International Conference on Business, Technology and Innovation, organized by the Business and Technology University, in cooperation with the University of Vlora and Tirana, marking the 100th anniversary of Albania’s Independence.

Minister Beqaj said that the knowledge of students from Kosovo compared to students of other countries, including European ones, is no different; they are almost identical as they all have access to the same information, and this is something to be proud of.

“The Government of the Republic of Kosovo is strongly convinced that the fastest way to economic growth is the creation of an environment conducive for businesses and foreign direct investments”, he added.

Economic Development Minister said that businesses are the key generator of developments in the country. “Empirical and field data from various countries, particularly of economies transformed into market economies, indicate that there is a sustainable and positive correlation between new businesses, innovation and economic growth”, said Beqaj.

From his part, UBT president, Edmond Hajrizi, said that the 21st Century is seeing changes in the higher education landscape with the use of more advanced technology, and the convergence between academia and industry. “Through this conference, we will try to create close relations with all of you, to preserve our reputation in commitments to higher education and research, as always”, said Hajrizi.

Albert Qani, Rector of the University of Vlora, said that the joint Conference on Business, Technology and Innovation, is an excellent example how this cross-university cooperation should be projected. “We have an urgent need for development and we will achieve this. For years now, the Vlora University, Ismajl Qemajli, has entered into a full structural modernization process, achieving tangible results”, said Rector Qani.

This conference was attended by 160 participants from the academia and other relevant experts.