The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, on the death of former President of Israel, Shimon Peres, sent a letter of condolences to Mr. Reuven Rivlin, President of the State of Israel.

Distinguished Mr. President,

It is with deep regret that I learned of the death of former President of Israel, Mr. Shimon Peres. In this sad moment for you and the entire people of Israel, let me extend, on my personal behalf and on behalf of the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia, my deepest and sincere condolences.

President Peres was a great fighter for freedom and democracy, a man of peace, a brilliant politician and a great statesman who will be remembered as a role model and will serve as an inspiration for the new generations of politicians in Israel. At a time of escalating tensions in the extremely complex region of the Middle East, he, as the voice of reason and peace, offered a noble vision of a peaceful and stable region. His commitment to lasting peace was crowned with the Nobel Peace Prize. In a region burdened by the past, he was a future-oriented leader. In a lasting memory will remain our cordial meetings and open talks aimed at building a future for the youth. With President Peres, we deepened the relations between the two friendly countries.

Please, Mr. President, convey my deepest condolences to the family of former President Peres.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov