The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, sent a letter of condolences to the President of the Italian Republic, Giorgio Napolitano, on the occasion of tragic loss of lives in the earthquake that struck Northern Italy:

With deep sadness I received the news of the great tragedy – the earthquake that struck the region Emilia-Romagna, taking precious lives away, leaving thousands of people homeless. I sincerely regret the loss of lives in this natural disaster.

In these mournful moments for you, for the citizens of your country and for the families of the victims, on behalf of the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia and on my personal behalf, let me extend my deepest sympathy. In these moments of sorrow, our prayers are with you and with the families of the victims.

Please, Mr. President, convey the expressions of condolences to the friendly Italian people.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov