The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, received today the Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Austria, Sebastian Kurz.

At the meeting, they exchanged views and information on the further deepening of the bilateral relations and cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Austria, as well as on the situation in terms of the Republic of Macedonia's membership in the European Union.

The two interlocutors agreed that the bilateral relations between the two countries are excellent, with continued political dialogue and a dynamic cooperation in many areas of common interest. In this context, special emphasize map placed on the good cooperation in the field of economy and investment, and President Ivanov reaffirmed our willingness to further deepen the cooperation in this sphere.

The Macedonian President expressed his gratitude for the open and continuous support by the Republic of Austria to the European aspirations of the Republic of Macedonia and expressed hope that it will continue in the future too, with the aim of unblocking Macedonia's integration processes.

President Ivanov stressed that the opening of accession negotiations for EU membership, as the most important goal for the Republic of Macedonia, will contribute to strengthening the reform processes and to successfully face the challenges. A joint conclusion was that the European integration of the Western Balkan countries is a key prerequisite for lasting stability and prosperity of the region.

Minister Kurtz noted that strategic interest of the Republic of Austria is full integration of the region into the Euro-Atlantic structures, and its active role and commitment to Macedonia's membership into the EU will continue.

President Ivanov, at the interest of the interlocutor, said that the Republic of Macedonia has built and nurtures a model of coexistence and respect for diversity, which is an extremely positive example not only in our region but also beyond.