Today (12 April 2013), the Deputy Prime Minister of the Government in charge of European Affairs, Dr. Fatmir Besimi, had an official meeting with the Minister of Interior of the Republic of Finland, Ms. Päivi Räsänen, who is on an official visit to the Republic of Macedonia.

During the meeting, the cooperation conducted so far between the two countries, its deepening and extending through bilateral cooperation and cooperation within the existing instruments for pre-accession assistance were discussed.

Emphasising the fact that the Republic of Finland is one of the most prospective partners for bilateral cooperation, the Deputy Prime Minister Besimi noted the importance of the support it provides for the Republic of Macedonia on its way towards EU membership, and emphasised the need for continuous cooperation and support in reforms undertaken for the accession of the country to the Union.

Besimi expressed his gratitude for the support of the Republic of Finland for further fulfilment of the political criteria which are part of the agreed priorities within the High Level Accession Dialogue. In addition, he emphasised that every possible cooperation in the current process of deep analysis of the degree of harmonization of national legislation with the European legislation (self-screening) that is implemented by institutions is appreciated, especially in defining the other goals that should be worked on towards further harmonization of policies.