The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, held a meeting today with the current and the future rapporteur of the European Parliament for the Republic of Macedonia, Mr. Richard Howitt and Mr. Ivo Vajgl.

President Ivanov expressed gratitude to Mr. Howitt for his personal involvement and contribution in the development of the overall relations and cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and the European Union, and for his role in the implementation of the reforms and progress in our European integration as the EP rapporteur for Macedonia.

The Macedonian President said that the European Parliament, as holder of the will of the citizens of the European Union, is a constant friend of the Republic of Macedonia and a strong supporter of our Euro-integration processes.

President Ivanov stressed that the Republic of Macedonia remains firmly committed to meeting all reforms to fulfill the strategic goals for membership in the European Union and NATO, and added that the support of the European Parliament is of particular importance.

President Ivanov, wishing Mr. Ivo Vajgl success in the execution of his new duty as the next EP rapporteur for the Republic of Macedonia, expressed his expectation for a strong and proactive engagement as a contribution towards achieving the ultimate goal – full-fledged EU membership.

Mr. Vajgl expressed his full support for our European integrations and added that he would make invest all his efforts for the Republic of Macedonia's membership into the European Union.