The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, received today in a farewell meeting the Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Shigeo Iwatani.

At the meeting, President Ivanov expressed satisfaction with the development of the bilateral relations and the advancement of the cooperation between the two countries. The Macedonian President stressed the need to strengthen the contacts at state and government level, which, according to him, would provide a strong impulse in the desired direction. "There are many untapped potentials for enhancing cooperation in all areas, especially in the area of economy. The focus of our attention should be drawn to the utilization of these resources and opportunities", President Ivanov said at the meeting.

The Macedonian President expressed his gratitude for the current technical and economic cooperation and for the numerous donations and projects implemented through the programs of the Japan International Cooperation Agency. President Ivanov stressed the need to strengthen the trade exchange and to attract Japanese investment in the Republic of Macedonia.

The Macedonian President thanked the Ambassador Iwatani for the contributions in promoting relations and cooperation between the two countries and wished him further personal and professional success.