The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, sent a congratulation message to Mr. Jens Stoltenberg on the occasion of assuming the post of Secretary General of NATO.

Your Excellency,

It gives me great honor and pleasure to congratulate you on your assuming the post of NATO Secretary General and extend best wishes for a successful execution of this responsible mission.

Respected Mr. Stoltenberg, it is clear that you take up this responsible post at a time of serious challenges for the Alliance and for the international community in general. I want to assure you that in the Republic of Macedonia and in me personally, you always have a trusted partner and you can always count on our support in the execution of your duty. The Republic of Macedonia is determined and resolute in meeting the established strategic goal - membership in NATO. The Republic of Macedonia has long ago met all criteria for membership in the Alliance and is waiting too long to take the place it deserves. The Republic of Macedonia is faced with a blockade in its membership into the Alliance, and this blockade is illegal. Our arguments for removal of the illegal membership blockade, our demands and expectations are based on what actually is necessity of today, a necessity that will guide us towards a more reliable and predictable world. And that is respect for international law, respect for international agreements and obligations arising thereof, as well as respect for the judgments of the International Court of Justice. Republic of Macedonia's membership in NATO is not only a benefit for us, but also for the Alliance and for our region. I sincerely hope that as Secretary General of the Alliance you will provide your personal contribution and will be engaged in removing the blockage we are facing.

Looking forward to a close and open cooperation in the coming period, please accept the cordial greetings from the Republic of Macedonia and the assurances of my highest consideration.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov