For the first time in history, the presidents of the Chambers of Commerce of Slovenia, Croatia and North Macedonia met in one place.
The 30th anniversary international conference of Alma Mater Europaea University Society and Technology – DIT 2026 has thus become one of the most important regional gatherings in the fields of economy, technology, and social development.
People must remain at the center of development
The central message of the conference was clear: technology can improve society only if we do not lose sight of people in its development.
The President of the Croatian Chamber of Economy Dr. Luka Burilović emphasized that technological development must remain focused on people and social responsibility: “Regardless of all technological progress, I think we would all agree here: at the center of everything has always been the human being, and the human being will always remain there. (…) Artificial intelligence is a human tool that must be used wisely, not a replacement for humans.”
He also stressed the importance of systematic investment in lifelong learning, the development of new competencies, and strengthening cooperation between institutions, the economy, and the academic community. He also specifically pointed out the importance of social integration, the effective inclusion of foreign workers, and the responsible management of the technological and social changes brought about by digital transformation.
Digital society needs trust, responsibility, and courage
The President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia Tibor Šimonka warned that we are living in a time of major changes, where technology is no longer just support, but is becoming the foundation of modern society: “Digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and media are no longer merely support. They are becoming the infrastructure of modern society. Technology brings exceptional opportunities to the economy for greater productivity, faster innovation, and better access to global markets, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. ” At the same time, he warned: “Real progress happens when we connect it with trust, responsibility, and the courage to change.”
Technology as the foundation of future development
The President of the Chamber of Commerce of North Macedonia Branko Azeski is convinced that modern society cannot progress without technological development: “Society and technology are the key challenges for the future. Today, without technology, you cannot get anywhere.”
He highlighted three key pillars of development:
- investment,
- exports,
- infrastructure.
According to him, these are precisely the areas that create the conditions for economic growth, social development, and a better quality of life. He also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and a joint response to the development challenges of modern times.
DIT 2026 as a symbol of new regional integration
The first joint appearance of the leadership of the chambers of commerce of Slovenia, Croatia, and North Macedonia, as well as the signing of a joint resolution, represent an important milestone in regional cooperation in the fields of economy, technology, and social development.
The discussions on the future of society, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and the responsibility of institutions and the economy were also joined by Blaž Cvar, President of the Chamber of Craft and Small Business of Slovenia, Albert Kekec, President of the Styrian Chamber of Commerce, and Ingrid Trobec, representative of the Primorska Chamber of Commerce.
DIT 2026 thus confirmed its role as an important international platform for connecting the economy, science, and society, and emphasized that technology must remain a tool for developing a more inclusive, connected, and sustainable future.
