The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, had a meeting today in Belgrade with the President of the Republic of Serbia, Mr. Tomislav Nikolic.

At the meeting, the two presidents agreed that the cooperation between the two countries is very good and that the friendly relations are being developed in the spirit of good neighborliness and close cooperation between the two nations.

President Ivanov stressed that the different views on certain issues should not hinder the good relations.

"There are indeed differences in the views we have on some issues, but it should not be an obstacle to the excellent relations. Therefore, this is a positive example in our region when two countries have some outstanding issues not to block the relations in other areas. All differences should be resolved through a dialogue," President Ivanov said after the meeting.

Macedonia and Serbia have a long historical and cultural tradition, President Ivanov added, but share identical vision to join the European family. "Of vital interest of both countries is to intensify the bilateral relations in all areas where we have common interest," the Macedonian President said.

Infrastructure was the main issue discussed at the meeting, as well as development of energy facilities and provision of energy stability in the region. A business club consisted of businessmen from both countries is in phase of establishment.

President Ivanov and President Nikolic discussed the regional and European prospects of the region.

"Therefore, we both appeal that we should turn to the future, our capacities are now directed towards economy and infrastructure so as to ensure that our people more intensively cooperate and communicate and thus their lives are improved. The European integration of our region is the best solution for us to leave behind all previous Balkan prejudices and animosities. The region has many things to leave behind and devote to young people, as investing in young people we invest in their future so that they can live in a better world," President Ivanov said.

The Serbian President Nikolic stressed that the political dialogue is intensified between the two countries in the past two years with the meetings at the highest level. He expressed appreciation for the assistance Macedonia has given to the Serbian people during the floods. "Goodness is the only thing that resists storms and historical tempests and turmoil," the Serbian President Nikolic said.

According to the Serbian President, the new agreement which is to be signed at the next joint meeting of the two governments will provide greater importance to the economic cooperation.

"There are significant opportunities for improvement and increase of trade. President Ivanov confirmed the interest in improving road infrastructure, particularly in the early completion of Corridor 10. With the completion of the work on that corridor by the end of 2016, the road and rail infrastructure through Serbia and Macedonia will be finalized," the Serbian President said.

Serbia's President Nikolic urged for adoption of an agreement on the protection of war memorials and monuments as soon as possible.

"Given that this year marks a significant jubilee, 100 years since the First World War, I think it is a good opportunity and occasion to renew the memory of our brave countrymen thanks to whose sacrifice and courage we live in peace and freedom. I urged President Ivanov to soon adopt an agreement on the protection of war monuments and memorial places where civilians were killed for their reconstruction to be implemented as soon as possible," the Serbian President said.

The Macedonian President Ivanov had a working meeting with the President of the National Assembly, Maja Gojkovic, and is set to meet in Pancevo with representatives of the Macedonian national minority in Serbia.

During the official visit to the Republic of Serbia, President Ivanov laid a wreath at the monument of the Unknown Soldier at Avala in Belgrade.