The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, sent a congratulation letter to Mr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier on the occasion of his election as President of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Respected Mr. Steinmeier,

I have the honor and pleasure, on behalf of the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia and on my personal behalf, to extend my most sincere congratulations on your election as President of the Federal Republic of Germany, and to wish you much success in performing this responsible office.

Your election to this post is of extreme importance. It happens in a time of numerous serious challenges facing Europe, while the unity, the trust and the necessity for greater cooperation within the European Union is facing major temptations. I am deeply convinced that your extensive diplomatic experience and international reputation will result in tightened relations with the region, which needs support in order to achieve sustainable political stability, security, economic development.

Respected Mr. Steinmeier, I want to assure you that the Republic of Macedonia will continue the reform process in order to reach all the European standards and criteria, and will continue to contribute to the good neighborly relations and regional cooperation. I sincerely hope that the Federal Republic of Germany, as a true friend of the Republic of Macedonia, will continue to support our efforts for integration into the European Union and NATO.

Allow me, on this occasion to express my particular satisfaction with the achieved level and the continued positive trend in the relations and cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and the Federal Republic of Germany. Moreover, I want to express full readiness for continuation of the established cooperation with your esteemed predecessors. This will contribute to further improvement of the relations in all areas of mutual interest, both at bilateral and multilateral level.

With sincere wishes for good health, continued professional success and personal happiness, please accept, Mr. Steinmeier, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov