The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, today received the Letters of Credence by the newly appointed Ambassador of the French Republic, H.E. Ms. Laurence Auer.

At the ceremony of presenting the credentials, President Ivanov wished Ambassador Auеr successful execution of the diplomatic duty and commended the upcoming celebration of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Macedonia and the French Republic.

President Ivanov stressed the importance of the support of the French Republic in the integration process of the Republic of Macedonia to the European Union and NATO, and said that, despite the blockades, the country continues with the same enthusiasm to implement the reforms.

“I would like to assure you that the blockades we face in the attainment of these goals do not reduce our enthusiasm and commitment at all. On the contrary, they are an additional motive, and, for us, the question of formal membership in NATO and the EU has never been whether, but when. And until then, the Republic of Macedonia will continue implementing the reforms and meeting the standards and criteria, for the formal membership to become a purely technical issue. I hope the French Republic, given the reality in our region and the broader collective interests for enlargement of the zone of stability, security and prosperity in Southeast Europe, will help the Republic of Macedonia in this regard”, President Ivanov said in his welcome address.

The Ambassador of the French Republic expressed confidence that France will remain committed to deepening bilateral cooperation in all areas of mutual interest and expressed support in the realization of the strategic goals of the Republic of Macedonia.

“My mission comes at a crucial moment for your country on its path towards the European Union, in preparing its legislation and good practices, investing in the future, good-neighborly relations. In this regard, we are aware of the obstacles and we wish, as soon as possible, a mutually acceptable solution regarding the name issue to be found”, Ambassador Auer said in her speech.

Both interlocutors welcomed the successful development of bilateral relations between both countries and agreed that there is still untapped potential in the sphere of economy, culture, education and science, as well as in the intensification of the economic relations.

 At the same time, the Macedonian President expressed his willingness to re-establish a dialogue at the highest level, in order to maintain the traditionally friendly and historical ties between the two countries and extended his assurances of highest consideration to the President of the French Republic, H.E. Francois Hollande.