The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, received today the letters of credence of the newly appointed apostolic nuncio to the Republic of Macedonia, H.E. Archbishop Guido Anselmo Pecorari.

At the meeting, President Ivanov wished the newly appointed apostolic nuncio to the Republic of Macedonia welcome and successful execution of the responsible duty, extending greetings to His Holiness, Pope Francis and wishes him success, personal happiness and good health.

"The historic relations between our two countries have entered deeply in the roots of global spirituality and universal Christian traditions, whereas important persons and events from our common past, such as the holy mission of Mother Theresa from Skopje and the priceless legacy of holy apostles Cyril and Methodius, are among the pillars of Europe's cultural blueprint," the Macedonian President underlined, estimating that there is still untapped potential and room for further enhancement of cooperation between the two countries.

H.E. Archbishop Guido Anselmo Pecorari expressed gratitude for the opportunity to present the credentials to the Macedonian President, conveying at the same time the impressions of Pope Francisco from the recent visit of the Macedonian delegation to the Vatican in Rome, led by President Ivanov.

"As apostolic nuncio, I would like to assure you Your Excellency of my full commitment in supporting and maintaining the common good of this beautiful nation, by helping the Catholic Church and all citizens and religious communities," Archbishop Guido Anselmo Pekorari said. The newly apostolic nuncio added that the Holy See will continue its active and dynamic presence in the country so as to strengthen the mutual cooperation.

The Republic of Macedonia, as the President said, is a country with multiethnic and multiconfessional society in which religious diversity is safeguarded as a treasure and fundament of human freedoms. Different faiths are considered an essential part of coexistence and mutual respect present in the very tissue of the Macedonian society. The Republic of Macedonia and the Holy See share spiritual, cultural and civilization values which are a solid bridge between the two countries.