SKOPJE (AA) - August 27, 2012 - Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov has said that the Turkish recognition of Macedonia made his country's international recognition and acceptance easier.
In a statement released Monday, the Macedonian Presidency said that Ivanov sent a letter to his Turkish counterpart Abdullah Gul on the occasion of the 20th year of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In his letter, Ivanov stressed that the date "August 26, 1992" was very important for them.
"Sharing this historic moment with you is a great happiness," Ivanov wrote in his letter.
"Diplomatic relations between Turkey and Macedonia were established during a very difficult period. At the time, the independence of the Republic of Macedonia was made a problem, its independence was tried to be blocked and its independence denied. When we turn back 20 years, we are aware of the importance of your step. Turkey's step for the recognition of Macedonia made international recognition easier. Turkey's recognition led to the wide acceptance of our republic," Ivanov stressed.
"I must express with gladness that relations and cooperation between our two countries continuously developed and got deeper in the past 20 years. Our political relations are at their top level today. We have established cooperation in many areas, drew legal frames with bilateral agreements, created a friendly atmosphere and facilitated common economic interests based on mutual understanding and respect," Ivanov underlined.
"I would like to thank friendly Turkey for their strong support to our bid for both NATO and the EU. I would like to especially underline Turkey's support in this context," Ivanov said.
"I am ready to make contributions to common efforts with your excellency for the strengthening of existing friendship and cooperation," Ivanov noted.
Turkey was the first country to recognize Macedonia with its constitutional name. Following the declaration of independence, all neighbors of Macedonia had implemented an embargo to this country. It was only Turkey who provided fuel and food assistance to Macedonia following the independence of the latter.
