Today, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Inter-Community Relations Mr. Ivan Stoilkovic held a working meeting with a delegation from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Skopje, led by the newly appointed Ambassador, Ms. Zhang Xiaoyan.

The meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere, with both sides expressing satisfaction over the continuity and strength of bilateral relations. Ambassador Xiaoyan reaffirmed the principled stance of the People’s Republic of China regarding the respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of North Macedonia.

During the discussions, it was emphasized that the relations between the two countries are characterized by long-standing mutual understanding, respect, and support, and that there is a solid foundation for their further development.

“The challenges are neither small nor are the limitations, but I will not give up on this window of cooperation with China. We need to overcome the obstacles and turn the willingness into collaboration,” emphasized the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister Stoilkovic. Referring to trade between the two countries, he added: “Our trade is disproportionate, which is why we are seeking trade preferences for Macedonian products. These are small steps that must begin to be implemented in order to push things forward.”

The Ambassador expressed her willingness to contribute to deepening cooperation in areas of mutual interest, with the aim of further strengthening the partnership ties, focusing on the visa regime for Chinese citizens and emphasizing tourism, for which she announced a meeting with local tour operators.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the interlocutors highlighted the importance of maintaining regular and intensified dialogue as a prerequisite for further progress in bilateral relations. Both sides expressed their readiness to continue the successful cooperation to date, as well as to initiate new projects and activities that will contribute to creating even stronger and more sustainable ties between the Republic of North Macedonia and the People’s Republic of China.