Some aspects in relations between Republic of Macedonia and Ukraine.

The relations and cooperation with Ukraine so far show that the Republic of Macedonia maintains developed political, economic, and cultural relations with this country, consolidated with activities in nearly all spheres. These relations are assessed as very good, while the quality of the same in a number of segments has reached the level of strategic partnership. The practically identical foreign policy priorities of the two countries also contribute to this constant advancement of the Macedonian-Ukrainian relations, as does their joint interest in participation in the process for democratization of the world and providing open support to such processes in all countries as part of the global international integration trends.

Besides the economic interests, the Republic of Macedonia also has other interests in further advancement of the evidently good, stable, and friendly relations with Ukraine. The reason for such political activity is not just because Ukraine is one of the more important international actors and factors, but also because we share strong cultural elements with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people and we belong to ethnic groups and civilizations that have had certain influence and have contributed to the neighboring peoples. Consequently, the Macedonian-Ukrainian relations are versatile, with certain historical roots and development.

Accordingly, Ukraine follows the events in Southeast Europe with great interest and it constantly demonstrates interest for cooperation and supports the democratic development of the Republic of Macedonia. At the same time, it is firmly committed to strengthening its position as a sovereign international subject, which involves integration in NATO and the EU. This further defines Ukraine's partnership with the Republic of Macedonia on the path to building a united Europe.

Thus, it is only logical that all activities of the Embassy are directed at ensuring that the Macedonian-Ukrainian relations are characterized by a high level of understanding and respect for each other's foreign policy interests. The Republic of Macedonia's exceptional geostrategic position in Southeast Europe, the tempo of implementation of the economic reforms, the economic infrastructure, and the reliable economy-related agreements with the EU member states have contributed toward Ukraine considering the Republic of Macedonia a perspective economic partner in the Balkans. Thus, in additional to establishing political relations, it is extremely important that the Republic of Macedonia also establish dynamic and structurally developed economic relations with Ukraine. The existing well-defined legal frame that enables a practically fully liberalized trade regime also contributes toward successful realization of the common interest for intensive economic cooperation.

And the final element that explains the evident success in the mutual relations is undoubtedly the common historical belonging and the initially established relations within the frames of the Slav triangle Kiev/Brest-Litovsk/Mogilovsk; St. Sofia, Ss. Cyril and Methodius, and St. Kliment and his university, which was attended by numerous Ukrainian reformers; Krste Petkov Misirkov and his stay in Odessa; and Taras Shevchenko and his poetry, which is very common among the Skopje inhabitants as of recently. But there is also us, their disciples, who have the honor to work on continuing and strengthening the Macedonian-Ukrainian friendship.

Ilija ISAJLOVSKI, Ambassador