Skopje, 17 January 2025 (MIA) - President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova received Friday the credentials of the newly appointed Ambassador of Japan, Setsuko Kawahara, the President's Office said in a press release. 

At the handover ceremony, President Siljanovska Davkova pointed out that though geographically far apart, the two countries are connected by common values ​​and a vision for building a better world, adding that she is deeply convinced of the existence of a strong mutual will to deepen bilateral relations.  

"Our country values ​​cooperation with the countries of the Asian continent, and relations with Japan have a special place in our foreign policy. Your rich diplomatic experience will undoubtedly contribute to the further strengthening of relations in all areas of mutual interest, from the political and economic spheres, to cultural exchange and scientific and technological cooperation," said the President. 

In that regard, she expressed satisfaction with the various Japanese programs and cooperation projects, which leave an exceptional mark on Macedonian society, and especially the Japanese positive example of celebrating anniversaries, 30 original events that will remain as a seal of Macedonian-Japanese friendship.

Ambassador Kawahara mentioned last year's celebration of the 30th anniversary since the establishment of diplomatic relations, noting that it was a special honor to have the President attend some of the events related to the celebration of the anniversary. She noted that Japan attaches exceptional importance to the stability and prosperity of the Western Balkans region, especially through the "Western Balkans Cooperation Initiative" launched by the Government of Japan in 2018, as part of which several programs have been successfully implemented in areas such as the economy, environmental protection, and disaster prevention.

The Ambassador expressed readiness to further support the country's reform processes, adding that she is determined to make every effort to deepen bilateral relations and promote cooperation on the international stage.

President Siljanovska Davkova wished Ambassador Kawahara a successful diplomatic mission, expressing assurance of fruitful future cooperation, reads the press release.  

Photo: President Siljanovska Davkova's Office