Skopje, 22 July 2024 (MIA) - Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi met Monday with Belgrade-based Ambassador of Norway to North Macedonia, Kristin Melsom, stating that both countries nourish a close friendship, and that the excellent political ties and friendship are permanently strengthened through NATO.

Speaker Gashi said that in a time when the continent is facing great challenges, the two countries will continue to defend democratic values, tolerance and the rule of law, actively contributing to the stability and security in the region, Europe and the world, the Parliament said in a press release.

Ambassador Melson expressed interest in the Parliament's planned activities for the coming period, including the possibility for advancing parliamentary cooperation on all levels with the current composition. She also highlighted the steps North Macedonia is taking towards the EU, and that the Kingdom of Norway will continue supporting the country's European integration path.

Regarding cooperation within NATO, the Ambassador highlighted the joint missions and successful cooperation within the programs for promoting NATO's role and position.

Interlocutors stressed the significant role of Macedonian nationals living and working in Norway, who represent an important bridge for connectivity and cooperation. They also discussed the need for increasing and expanding the economic cooperation between the two countries, with a focus on attracting larger Norwegian companies to invest in North Macedonia and through it in the region, reads the press release. ssh/ik/

Photo: Parliament