Deputy president of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia for European Affairs, Fatmir Besimi PhD paid a working visit to the Republic of Austria. Deputy Prime Minister Besimi had a meeting with the Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs of Austria, Mr. Sebastian Kurz.

The support from Austria is essential for Macedonia and it is strengthened with the adoption of the Action Plan Austria-Macedonia, during your visit in the country in February, said Deputy Prime Minister Besimi. The bilateral relations between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Austria are characterised with friendship and understanding and a high level dynamic dialogue. Both sides show interest in the constant improvement of the relations and cooperation in many areas.

The European integration process was also discussed at the meeting. Austria is one of the countries Friends of Macedonia and makes a commitment to the European perspective, both for Macedonia and for the region. Macedonia needs to make progress in the accession process, since the commencement of negotiations is the best tool to resolve the key challenges, emphasised Besimi.

During the conversation, Deputy Prime Minister Besimi referred to the development of the political situation in Macedonia and recalled the country's commitment to full implementation of the political agreement of June last year. He also stressed the country's commitment to open collaboration with the EU in dealing with the migrant crisis and proved to be a serious partner of the Union. Republic of Macedonia supports the joint, coordinated and comprehensive European approach to the management of the refugee crisis.

Deputy Prime Minister Besimi and the Minister Kurz expressed their satisfaction for the continuation of cooperation between the Republic of Austria and the Republic of Macedonia.

During his visit, Deputy Prime Minister Besimi gave a lecture at the Diplomatic Academy in Vienna on topic: "Macedonian integration in the EU: challenges and the way forward".