Skopje, 6 December 2023 (MIA) - Over the past 30 years, France has been our supporter both in good times and bad times. There were ups and downs, exaltation and disappointment along this path, but despite all difficulties and challenges, our commitment to full-fledged EU integration was and still is a constant, said President Stevo Pendarovski at an event observing the 30th anniversary of North Macedonia-France diplomatic ties.

"We expect France, a country that has invested so much in building a common European home, but also in the Macedonian part of the joint vision for a united Europe, to continue in supporting us on this long journey," said President Pendarovski.

According to him, the current geopolitical momentum resulting from the Russian aggression in Ukraine, but also the global geopolitical shifts, which impose the unification imperative to Europe, is an opportunity to double the efforts for an even greater commitment in the achievement of the common goal.

"Friendship between countries and nations, but also among individuals, is a virtue that must be fostered continuously in order to survive. Let's stay committed to maintaining close relations and cooperation between North Macedonia and France. This event, which takes place at the end of a difficult year for Europe, is a proof of our appreciation for true values. They are the best investment in overcoming problems and for joint progress in the years ahead," underlined Pendarovski.

French Ambassador Cyrille Baumgartner said ties between the two countries are becoming closer.

"As part of the big solidarity movement following the 1963 Skopje earthquake, the French collection was set up in the Museum of Contemporary Art, which is today one of the museum's precious jewels. Approximately half a century before, our two nations fought together on the Macedonian front, whereas our cemeteries in Bitola, Skopje and elsewhere still keep the memory of that time. Therefore, even before Macedonia, now North, became independent, we had had a common history marked by brotherhood and solidarity in mutual hardship," said Ambassador Baumgartner.

He added that last week, Skopje hosted the largest international event to date, also attended by the French Minister of State for Europe Laurence Boone, her third visit in a year.

"If we add to this the September visit of Oliver Becht, Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade, Economic Attractiveness and French Nationals Abroad, then we have done as much this year as over the past decade," noted Baumgartner.

The Ambassador said bilateral trade exchange has also been on the rise.

"We will yet witness the most beautiful pages of our mutual history. It is up to us to make this happen sooner," underlined Baumgartner.

The French Ambassador also extended condolences over the double murder that has affected the country over the past week, saying "we share your pain".

Photo: MIA