Skopje, 13 December 2023 (MIA) – President Stevo Pendarovski received Wednesday the letters of credence of the newly appointed ambassadors of the Kingdom of Norway, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and the Republic of Latvia – Kristin Melsom, Marc Hübsch, and Elita Kuzma.

Welcoming Norwegian Ambassador Melsom, President Pendarovski voiced his satisfaction with the excellent bilateral relations and successful cooperation between North Macedonia and Norway. The President stressed that the two countries, as NATO member states, are close allies that share the same security challenges, and are united in defense of the international order based on rules and democratic values.

In her speech, Ambassador Melsom noted that the bilateral relations are founded on a firm basis of historical friendship, and will continue to develop further. She highlighted Norway’s support for North Macedonia’s integration and the cooperation within Europe.

At the ceremony with the new Ambassador of Luxembourg, Marc Hübsch, President Pendarovski emphasized the three decades of diplomatic relations between the two countries, stating that through joint efforts the two countries have managed to establish dynamic political relations and a solid level of mutual cooperation in multiple areas. He expressed interest in further enhancement and deepening of cooperation in all areas of mutual interests.

In his speech at the ceremony, Ambassador Hübsch voiced his belief in the potential for further enhancement of bilateral relations, above all in the field of economy. The Ambassador reaffirmed Luxembourg’s unequivocal support for the Western Balkan’s EU membership perspective and emphasized that the enlargement process represents an investment in peace, security, stability and prosperity. He urged the aspiring member states to intensify their reform efforts, especially in the field of rule of law.

At the ceremony with the new Latvian Ambassador to North Macedonia, Elita Kuzma, President Pendarovski emphasized the friendly and partner relations between the two countries. He noted that Latvia is an important partner to North Macedonia and voiced his conviction that a successful period of further enhancement of cooperation on a bilateral and multilateral level lies ahead of the two countries.

In her address, Ambassador Kuzma said Latvia supports the country’s further progress in the process of accession negotiations, noting that they value North Macedonia’s full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy. The Ambassador expressed Latvia’s readiness to continue to provide North Macedonia with expertise and practical support during the process.

President Pendarovski wished the ambassadors success in their diplomatic missions.

On Wednesday, the ambassadors also met with Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani who received their credentials.

Photo: Office of the President of North Macedonia