The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov met today with the Minister for European Affairs of the Kingdom of Denmark, Nicholai Wammen.

Key discussion topics between the two interlocutors were the forthcoming meeting of the European Council in June and the possibility of unblocking the EU integration by setting a date to start membership negotiations with the European Union, as well as the prospects for deepening bilateral relations and cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and the Kingdom of Denmark.

Emphasizing that the high level dialogue is not a substitute for accession negotiations, President Ivanov expressed expectation that Denmark, the current holder of the European Union presidency, during the meeting of the Council in June will open the question of Macedonia and will support setting a date for starting accession negotiations. President Ivanov expressed hope that fully respecting the Interim Accord, the ruling of the Hague, and the positive examples from the region of parallel movement in integration and overcoming bilateral differences, it would be possible to unblock the European and Euro-Atlantic integration. Moreover, President Ivanov stressed the readiness of the Republic of Macedonia through dialogue, constructive approach and full respect for the framework in which talks are led, a mutually acceptable solution to the imposed dispute can be reached, which requires identical approach of our neighbor.

Minister Wammen expressed satisfaction with the reform processes in the country, and congratulated on the launch and the achievements of the high-level dialogue with the European Union. He noted that Denmark, in the capacity of a Chairman, and bilaterally, remains a strong supporter of the enlargement and within its possibilities is making efforts all the countries of the Western Balkans, including Macedonia, to make a step forward in the integrations. Minister Wammen noted that the unresolved name dispute with Greece remains an obstacle on Macedonia’s path towards the EU and Denmark encourages and wishes both sides to find a mutually acceptable solution through dialogue.

Both interlocutors expressed interest in strengthening the overall bilateral cooperation between both countries and will to intensify contacts, given the fact that so far there has not been a meeting at the highest level.