The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, received today in a farewell meeting the Ambassador of the Republic of Austria in the Republic of Macedonia, H.E. Thomas Michael Bayer.

At the meeting, the two interlocutors expressed satisfaction with the excellent bilateral relations, which are characterized by continuous political dialogue and a dynamic cooperation in several areas of mutual interest.

In this context, President Ivanov stressed that the numerous meetings and contacts with his Austrian counterpart, President Fischer, only confirm the sincere friendship and the positive development of the relations between Macedonia and Austria.

The Macedonian President expressed gratitude for the open and strong support by the Republic of Austria to the highest strategic objectives of the Republic of Macedonia, EU and NATO.

"The citizens of the Republic of Macedonia see in Austria the biggest and most principled supporter of the European integration of the Republic of Macedonia, and because of this fact, as well as because of the economic ties and Austrian investments, your country enjoys a great reputation in the Republic of Macedonia", President Ivanov said.

The Austrian Ambassador Bayer thanked for the hospitality during his tenure, expressing satisfaction with the performance of his diplomatic duties in the country. He added that Austria will continue to support the Euro-Atlantic aspirations of the Republic of Macedonia, and that his country will further foster friendship and cooperation with the Republic of Macedonia.

Following the political agreement reached and in the wake of the Vienna Conference in August, Ambassador Bayer stressed that he is leaving the country with optimism for the Euro-Atlantic perspective of the Republic of Macedonia, and with positive experiences and great respect for the model of interethnic coexistence which is being practiced in Macedonia.

At the meeting, President Ivanov expressed satisfaction with the cooperation with Ambassador Bayer and wished him success in his further career.