Skopje Expects Relations Breakthrough from Macedonian Foreign Minister's Visit to Moscow

According to Macedonia's Foreign Ministry, the visit to Moscow of its head, Ilinka Mitreva, is expected to result in 'a breakthrough in bilateral relations' and increased trade turnover between Macedonia and Russia. While in Moscow, Mrs. Mitreva intends to discuss with Russia's leaders the prospect of developing close neighbourly relations.

According to the statement made today at a press conference by Macedonian government's spokesman, the former Yugoslavian republic that counts on integrating into every structure of the European Union 'has no intention of severing her long-time relationship with Russia, one of Macedonia's principal allies'.

Macedonia intends to use Russia's experience while fighting Albanian separatists. Advisors from Russia's special forces may arrive in Macedonia very soon to instruct their Macedonian colleagues in mountain warfare.

The press service of Macedonia's government says that the principal purpose of the visit to Moscow of the country's Foreign Minister is to convince Russia that 'Skopje is her most sincere friend'. The minister said that 'What is most important is that Moscow wants to preserve the integrity of Macedonia and rejects separatism.

The visit of Macedonia's Foreign Minister to Moscow begins today and will last through January 15.