The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, on the occasion of Bastille Day, the national holiday of the French Republic, sent a congratulation note to Mr. Francois Hollande, President of the French Republic.

Distinguished Mr. President,

On the occasion of Bastille Day, the national holiday of the French Republic, I have the pleasure, on behalf of the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia and on my personal behalf, to extend my most sincere congratulations and wishes for prosperity of friendly France.

Let me hereby express my high appreciation for the strengthening of the relations between the Republic of Macedonia and the French Republic.

For the Republic of Macedonia especially important is the French support for our goals, membership in NATO and in the European Union. Given the numerous security threats to the region, the prolonged status quo situation in the European and Euro-Atlantic integration of the Republic of Macedonia is not only a political but also a security issue. Therefore, the role of France, as a sincere supporter of the prospects for Euro-Atlantic integration of my country, as before, for us will be of strategic importance in the future, too.

Congratulating you once again the National Day, please, Mr. President, accept the assurances of my highest consideration.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov