President Stevo Pendarovski received today the letters of credence of the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to the Republic of North Macedonia, Milan Predan.
President Pendarovski expressed satisfaction with the excellent bilateral relations and the successful cooperation between the two countries, which are characterized by intensive cooperation, unreserved mutual support and respect. Apart from friends, North Macedonia and Slovenia are NATO allies, adding that the support and cooperation will continue in the process of North Macedonia’s accession to the EU.
The President also stressed that the bilateral relations between the countries are friendly, with successes in many areas. Slovenia, he added, is our important trade partner, with numerous investors, recognizable for their products of excellent quality, present on the Macedonian market.
In the context of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, President Pendarovski thanked for the assistance that Slovenia, at the very beginning of the crisis, gave to my country, as well as for the successful coordination between our countries in terms of practical experiences and solutions to overcome this phenomenon. He also reminded that the two countries had a joint commitment and contribution to the security and stability on our southern border in dealing with the migrant flows.
Expressing his gratitude for the warm welcome, Ambassador Predan said that the friendship and partnership that the countries began to build during the former joint state, strengthened in the period after the two countries’ independence, adding that relations have always been sincere, without hidden agendas, based on mutual trust and understanding; today, these relationships are excellent and without open issues, which is a special treasure.
Ambassador Predan also said that the rich economic, cultural and other contacts at the state level and among the people have contributed to that end. He added that over a thousand Macedonian students are educated yearly at Slovenian universities, and the links between younger generations are the greatest guarantee for our future cooperation and invaluable capital that we must continue to nurture.
Ambassador Predan expressed his conviction that the Republic of Slovenia will continue to stand by the Republic of North Macedonia and with its knowledge and experience will help it on the path to full EU membership. “We have been strong supporters of your NATO membership and we are strong supporters of the start of your negotiations with the EU as soon as possible. Together with my colleagues at the Embassy, I will do my best the Slovenian support regarding these key goals to complement your wishes and expectations.
