Skopje, 14 January 2025 (MIA) - Minister of European Affairs Orhan Murtezani met Tuesday in Ankara with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, discussing political, economic and social affairs, with a focus on strengthening bilateral ties and regional stability.

Minister Murtezani highlighted Turkey's important political and economic role in the Balkans as a key stakeholder in the area's stabilization and the management of global and regional challenges, the Ministry of European Affairs said in a press release.

Both ministers agreed on the importance of promoting high-level political dialogue between North Macedonia and Turkey, and the need to identify points of mutual interest that will ensure increased cooperation, especially in the fields of economy, trade and culture.

North Macedonia values Turkey's support in the promotion of social structures and inclusivity, whereas joint initiatives in strengthening societal ties represent a model of positive cooperation that contributes to the region's stability and development.

Murtezani noted that the region's accelerated European integration represents an opportunity for increased growth and development, while cooperation with Turkey in this process is crucial in ensuring economic and political stability, as well as pushing North Macedonia's Euro-integration efforts.

Interlocutors also discussed the importance of stability in the energy sector and opportunities for joint energy projects as an important aspect of bilateral relations and a strategic priority towards sustainable development.

In addition, Murtezani thanked Fidan for Turkey's continued support to North Macedonia's European integration process, highlighting the mutual vision for a stable, peaceful and prosperous Balkans integrated in the EU and ready to cope with contemporary challenges, reads the press release.

Photo: Ministry of European Affairs