The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov met today with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Albania, Edmond Haxhinasto.

President Ivanov and Deputy Prime Minister Haxhinasto at the meeting assessed bilateral relations between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Albania as excellent and friendly, with continued positive dynamics in dialogue and cooperation. At the meeting, several initiatives for further improvement and exploitation of opportunities for cooperation, especially in the economic sector, and ways for its intensification. It was mutually agreed that joint action is necessary to improve the road infrastructure between the two countries, which would provide a concrete contribution in that regard.

President Ivanov and Deputy Prime Minister Haxhinasto exchanged opinions on the Euro-Atlantic integrations of Macedonia and Albania, as well as the regional developments. The interlocutors concluded that the integrations in the region are moving and that both countries should continue the good cooperation and mutual support for Macedonia’s integration into NATO and the European Union and Albania’s integration into the EU.

President Ivanov and Deputy Prime Minister Haxhinasto agreed that individual isolated incidents cannot affect the friendly relations between both countries, stating that it is important all responsible and serious political factors in the region continue to condemn attempts encouraging hostility and prejudice among the states, nations and religious communities in the region. Macedonia and Albania remains committed to promoting positive perspective for all citizens, which will provide economic development and prosperity, and mutual respect and tolerance.