The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, received today the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo, Enver Hoxhaj.

It was noted at the meeting that the relations between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Kosovo are continuous, constructive and friendly in terms of numerous issues of mutual interest and in the spirit of good neighborly relations.

Both interlocutors expressed satisfaction with the overall development of bilateral relations, regular political dialogue at all levels and concluded that economic and trade cooperation are marking positive trends.

President Ivanov and Minister Hoxhaj agreed that all outstanding issues in the region can and must be overcome only in political dialogue and cooperation. The President stressed that for the countries of the region, integration into NATO and the European Union is the only alternative. In this context, the Republic of Macedonia supports Kosovo in its Euro-Atlantic integration and is willing to contribute by transferring positive experiences in many areas.

President Ivanov reiterated the principled position of the Republic of Macedonia in terms of the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristine. He welcomed the two agreements reached in Brussels, saying that the successful conduct of the dialogue is important for stability in the region.

At the meeting, they exchanged views on cooperation in other areas of mutual interest such as defense, fight against organized crime, culture, health, education. They reaffirmed the efforts to enhance regional cooperation in economy, infrastructure and traffic, as well as to intensify cross-border cooperation through joint utilization of European funds.

Extending greetings to the President of the Republic of Kosovo, H.E. Atifete Jahjaga, President Ivanov expressed hope that Macedonian Gorani in Kosovo will be recognized under that name as soon as possible. Given the fact that the Republic of Kosovo has made important steps in the recognition of minority rights of the Montenegrins and Croats, I expect the same status to be given to the Macedonian Gorani. I am confident that this would be welcomed and highly appreciated by all relevant international actors, stressed President Ivanov. At the meeting, Kosovo Foreign Minister pledged to enhance the status and rights of the Macedonian Gorani.