The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, today received a delegation from the US Congress, which is visiting the Republic of Macedonia, consisted of the following members: Mr. David Drierer, Mr. David Price, Mr. Jim McDermott, Mr. Eric Paulsen and Mr. Gerry Connolly.

At the meeting, President Ivanov said that this visit is of particular importance because it happens in extremely important period for the Republic of Macedonia and its strategic objectives.

Congressmen were acknowledged with the latest developments in the Republic of Macedonia, with the efforts to change the status quo in terms of Euro-Atlantic integration processes, as well as with the expectations for the coming period. The President expressed gratitude for the continued support and for the strategic partnership with the United States which is not only formal, but an essential one, abased on shared values and ideas, identical visions and partner relations. The letter signed by 54 Congressmen and sent to the U.S. President, Barack Obama, is yet another confirmation of the friendship between both countries, and an act highly appreciated by the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia.

The Congress members were informed on the judgment of the International Court of Justice that gives credibility and is a confirmation of the rightful policy of the Republic of Macedonia. In anticipation of the upcoming Summit in Chicago, the President expressed hope that after the judgment, the member-states will reconsider their positions regarding Macedonia, i.e. the Bucharest conclusion will be reviewed.

The meeting with the congressmen tackled the bilateral name dispute imposed by the southern neighbor. President Ivanov reiterated the position that Macedonia remains with a constructive approach, committed to the process for finding a mutually acceptable solution to name as soon as possible, which necessarily implies respect for the framework in which negotiations are led, good faith and responsible approach from our southern neighbor.

The Congressmen reaffirmed full support for the Euro-Atlantic integration of the Republic of Macedonia and readiness to further deepen partner relations and cooperation with the Congress, particularly through the House Democracy Partnership program (HDP). Expressing appreciation for Macedonia’s participation in peacekeeping missions, it was stressed that of great importance is the Republic of Macedonia’s integration into NATO, which would mean a positive impulse for the whole region, further stabilization of relations and expansion of the zone of stability and security.