Deputy Prime Minister for European Affairs, Mr. Fatmir Besimi today, February 24, 2016, paid a working visit to the Republic of Italy and had a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Paolo Gentiloni.

The support of the Republic of Italy in the Euro-Atlantic integration of Macedonia was highlighted at the meeting, and the position of Italy was emphasised that the process of EU enlargement will not be complete without all of the Western Balkans countries.

The current political situation in the country was also discussed at the meeting. Besimi stressed the importance of using the following period for fulfilment of all necessary conditions to organise free and fair elections in accordance with the international standards.

Regarding the country"s commitments in the EU integration process, Besimi informed about the implementation of the Urgent reform priorities which are particularly important given that after the elections, the country will receive another Report from the European Commission on the basis of which will be determined the future perspective of Macedonia.

Regarding the migrant crisis, the interlocutors pointed out that it is important to have a coordinated and effective policy across all EU countries, solidarity in dealing with the crisis, so that Macedonia will be able to continue being a constructive partner in the whole process.

In this regard, Besimi expressed gratitude for the financial assistance to the Republic of Macedonia in dealing with migrant crisis amounting to 340,000 Euro and the support to prevent flooding through the IPA Regional Programme for Prevention, Preparedness and Response to the floods in the Western Balkans and Turkey.

During the visit, Deputy Prime Minister Besimi had a meeting with the Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on European and External Affairs, Mr. Fabrizio Chiquita.