The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, received today the President of the Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Turkey, Mr. Cemil Cicek.

At the meeting, the two interlocutors expressed satisfaction with the excellent relations and the continuing upward trend in the cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Turkey at all levels.

Commending the ongoing parliamentary cooperation, President Ivanov expressed hope that in the coming period the parliamentary cooperation will contribute to further strengthening of the relations and enrichment of the cooperation.

President Ivanov expressed gratitude for the consistent support of the Republic of Turkey for the Republic of Macedonia's membership to NATO.

"We highly appreciate the fact that the Republic of Turkey is a longstanding and vocal supporter and promoter of the strategic goals of the Republic of Macedonia," President Ivanov said at the meeting.

The two interlocutors praised the economic cooperation that marks an increasing trend, and expressed their expectation for its further intensification. The meeting also discussed the intensification of cooperation in defense and security, culture, education, and multilaterally.

President Ivanov expressed his expectation for enhanced cooperation within the Alliance of Civilizations, given that the Republic of Turkey is one of the founding members of this initiative within the United Nations.

The President of the Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Turkey, Mr. Cicek, stressed that the Republic of Macedonia is an important partner of the Republic of Turkey and that, as before, the Republic of Macedonia can count on Ankara's support.

Views and information on the regional developments were exchanged at the meeting.