President Stevo Pendarovski held a meeting on Friday morning in Ohrid with US Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasian Affairs Philip Reeker during which they discussed how North Macedonia can achieve foreign political priorities and promote relations with the US, as well as EU integration and the current situation in the region.
Interlocutors, the President’s Office said in a press release, reaffirmed at the meeting partnership between North Macedonia and the US, excelled cooperation within NATO, as well as readiness to further enhance collaboration in other areas.
President Pendarovski, the press release read, underlined that North Macedonia remains committed to the reform process, building good neighborly relations, and active participation in all initiatives aimed at promoting regional cooperation.
“The US has been our ally for a long time, a firm supporter of reforms in areas of defence and security, rule of law, independent judiciary, public administration. We remain committed to strengthening strategic partnership and promoting even closer friendship between the two countries,” President Pendarovski said.
He underlined that EU membership remains North Macedonia’s strategic goal, adding that the Union has to find a way to validate the country’s efforts and unblock the integration process.
“Further delaying the start of negotiations will increase citizens’ skepticism towards Europe and reflect negatively on the political situation in the country,” Pendarovski said during the meeting with Reeker.
