The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, held a meeting today with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey, H.E. Dr. Ahmet Davutoglu.

The meeting discussed the further deepening of bilateral relations and intensification of cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Turkey. Both interlocutors expressed satisfaction with the traditional friendship and partnership, as well as with the intensive communication and cooperation in all areas of common interest, as a confirmation of the excellent relations between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Turkey.

Expressing gratitude for the strong and consistent support of the Republic of Turkey in terms of our strategic goals, membership in the European Union and NATO, President Ivanov stressed that the Republic of Macedonia highly appreciates the Turkish involvement and efforts on these issues.

The Macedonian President and the Turkish Prime Minister commended the economic cooperation, which is at the top of the agenda of bilateral relations, with an expectation for further intensification. Cooperation in defense and security, culture, tourism, education, and in international organizations was discussed.

In this context, President Ivanov expressed expectation for enhanced cooperation within the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, where the Republic of Turkey is a founding member.
President Ivanov and Prime Minister Davutoglu exchanged views and information on the situation in the region on issues of foreign policy interest of the two countries and discussed the need for greater cooperation between the security services of the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Turkey, in terms of dealing with the threat of foreign terrorist fighters.

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey, Mr. Davutoglu, said that the Republic of Macedonia is an important friend and partner of the Republic of Turkey, and that, as before, the Republic of Macedonia can count on the unconditional support and assistance from the Republic of Turkey in the future, and added that our country, with its model of coexistence, is a positive example not only in the region but also beyond.