The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, received today the Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Mr. Johannes Hahn.

The meeting discussed the integration process of the Republic of Macedonia in the European Union, the promotion of good neighborly relations, as well as the current developments in the country.

President Ivanov said that our country remains fully committed to the opening of accession negotiations and implementation of reforms for EU membership, stressing that it is necessary for the European Council to see the consequences of the current status quo and find a way for valorization of the positive recommendations of the European Commission.

In this context, the Macedonian President asked for a more active engagement and support of Commissioner Hahn, stressing that the prolonged waiting for the next step in terms of the European integrations causes frustration in our society, instability in the political life and tension in inter-ethnic relations.

President Ivanov reaffirmed the position of the Republic of Macedonia for building and promotion of good neighborly relations and regional cooperation, as well as willingness to address all outstanding issues in order to contribute to the stability and prosperity of the region.

"The positive examples in our region of parallel processes of integration and overcoming bilateral differences should be applied in the case of the Republic of Macedonia and its southern neighbor", President Ivanov said.

In terms of the recent developments in the Republic of Macedonia, President Ivanov urged the political parties to behave reasonably and responsibly, in accordance with the interests of the citizens and the state.

"As a democratic country, we must show maturity before the challenges that emerge in the society, which must be settled institutionally, through an open dialogue. As Head of State, I give my full support for efficient and transparent action of all competent authorities in determining the existence of activities contrary to the constitutional and legal order and in sanctioning the perpetrators of criminal acts", President Ivanov said.

Commissioner Hahn expressed hope that the Republic of Macedonia will continue the reform process to soon start negotiations for membership in the European Union.

"My position and the position of the EU is that all political parties should lead the political debate in the parliament, not outside of the parliament. I am here to help you find a way out of the political situation. The opposition must return to the Parliament and all political issues must be resolved there", Commissioner Hahn said, adding that Macedonia must work hard on the key remarks of the Progress Report of the European Commission.