Prime Minister Zoran Zaev met Friday with new Italian Ambassador to North Macedonia Andrea Silvestri.

Zaev told Silvestri that people in the country need European values and development continues in line with these principles. He added that commitment to good neighborly relations continues through implementing the agreements with Greece and Bulgaria, as well as the Ohrid Framework Agreement, building one society for all, and a focus on economy, health, education and areas directly related to the quality of life.

Participants in the meeting voiced Italy’s support for the country’s Euro-Atlantic integration, adding that North Macedonia belongs to Europe historically, geographically, culturally and politically, and expressing hope that it will continue to move forward on the European path, the Government said in a press release.

Zaev extended gratitude for the sincere and traditional friendship with Italy, and expressed commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the area of economy.

Talks also focused on Italy’s readiness to support North Macedonia in terms of reforms in judiciary and the rule of law, as well as cooperation in the area of health, the press release reads.

In addition, PM Zaev extended an invitation to his Italian counterpart Giuseppe Conte for an official visit to North Macedonia.