The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, sent a congratulation note to Mr. Rumen Radev on his election as new president of the Republic of Bulgaria.

Distinguished Mr. Radev,

Allow me, on my personal behalf and on behalf of the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia, to extend my sincere congratulations on winning the presidential elections. I wish you much success in carrying out this responsible office.

The Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Bulgaria share a lot of things from the past, but, even more importantly, we share identical vision of the present and the future, as well as identical challenges. Stability, security, economic prosperity of our countries and the region is the vision that we share. This vision will become a reality only with sincere commitment to building good neighborly relations, maximum cooperation at bilateral and regional level, accelerated integration of the entire region into the Euro-Atlantic structures. This approach will enable us to appropriately face the challenges. The Republic o f Bulgaria plays an important role in this respect.

I would like to assure you that I am fully prepared to work with you to make this vision a reality. I believe that with joint efforts we can provide personal contribution thereto and expect and hope for close cooperation and frank dialogue.

Looking forward to our meeting, please accept the assurances of my highest consideration.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov