The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, within the 71^st General Assembly of the United Nations in New, York met with the Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr. Ban Ki-moon.

“It was honor and privilege to have the opportunity to work with you in the past years; you are one of the most visible and most active leaders”, commended Ban for the President of the Republic of Macedonia, praising Ivanov’s leadership on issues of importance for the United Nations, such as climate change, the Alliance of Civilizations, sustainable development, migrant crisis.

At the meeting, they exchanged views on the current challenges facing the United Nations, the situation in the Republic of Macedonia and the region, as well as the name dispute and the United Nations led process.

President Ivanov welcomed the initiative to hold a high-level meeting at the United Nations General Assembly on the mass movements of refugees and migrants, issues which, according to Ivanov, require a common approach and coordinated action.

President Ivanov and Secretary General Ban exchanged views on the situation in Macedonia and the region of Southeast Europe, especially in the context of its European and Euro-Atlantic perspective.

Regarding the name difference, President Ivanov stressed Macedonia’s readiness for constructive participation in the United Nations led process, in compliance with international law, the Interim Accord, the UN resolutions and the ruling of the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

President Ivanov welcomed the frequent contacts and confidence-building measures, stressing that they need to be further expanded. “In dialogue and measures, a positive atmosphere is created that helps to restore confidence and improve understanding”, President Ivanov said.

At the end of his second term as UN Secretary General, President Ivanov praised the leadership of Mr. Ban Ki-moon and his commitment to the core values ​​of the United Nations and wished him success in his future endeavors.