The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, yesterday evening, had a telephone conversation with the US Secretary of State, Ms. Hillary Clinton, at her request.

The US Secretary of State expressed satisfaction with the excellent bilateral relations between the United States and the Republic of Macedonia. Partnership with the Republic of Macedonia for us is very important and we are grateful for the contribution you give to the ISAF, said the Secretary of State Clinton.

Both interlocutors exchanged views and information on the situation in the SEE region. President Ivanov stressed that only accelerated Euro-Atlantic integration of all countries in the region can bring lasting stability, security and prosperity. Your support in view of making a step forward and removing the blockage in the EU integration is extremely important, and we highly value your message from Chicago, said the Macedonian President emphasizing the importance of having the Euro-Atlantic integration process unblocked for the Republic of Macedonia, but also for the entire region. Secretary of State Clinton stressed that the US is and will be a partner of the Republic of Macedonia, that, as before, it will support the strategic objectives of the Republic of Macedonia. We all want to see you in NATO as soon as possible and we sincerely hope that the only obstacle will be removed and you will find a dignified and practical solution to the name issue. We stand ready to help, said the US Secretary of State.

President Ivanov said that finding a mutually acceptable solution would be of mutual benefit and good for the two neighbouring countries. The Republic of Macedonia is actively and constructively participating in the United Nations-led process, and we are ready for a mutually acceptable solution in which there will be no winners and losers, the Macedonian President said.