The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, received today Ambassador Aivo Orav, Head of the European Union Delegation to the Republic of Macedonia.

During the meeting, Ambassador Orav handed over the Republic of Macedonia Progress Report for 2013 to President Ivanov, drafted by the European Commission and informed of the key assessments therein.

President Ivanov, expressing satisfaction with the confirmed recommendation regarding the Republic of Macedonia's readiness to start accession negotiations with the EU, said that the European Commission again this year, gives a realistic picture of the accomplishments and achievements of the country.

Ambassador Orav expressed hope that the reform process in the country will continue and that the Republic of Macedonia will soon start the EU accession negotiations.

President Ivanov said that the commitment to the reform process remains high on Macedonia's agenda and expressed hope that the next European Council, EU Member States will show leadership and determination.

"It is high time the Republic of Macedonia resumes its integration process, it is high time the Republic of Macedonia is allowed parallel movement. Status quo does not bring anything good. There is no bigger and stronger impulse for reforms and overcoming the weaknesses than the start of accession negotiations", President Ivanov said at the meeting.