Skopje, February 2 (MIA) - Macedonia and Russia have been nourishing solid, friendly relations, which require further strengthening in the sphere of economy, Foreign Minister Antonio Milososki and Russian Ambassador to the country Vladimir Solotsinsky  said Monday at the celebration of the 15 anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Russia recognized Macedonia under its constitutional name on August 4, 1992. The two countries established diplomatic ties on January 31, 1994.

- This act of recognition and friendship was very significant for us, being one of the foundations of our relations with Russia...I am certain that we shall invest additional efforts in the future to strengthen the bilateral, economic and cultural relations, Milososki said.

Macedonia and Russia have been enjoying dynamic political dialogue, working continuously on boosting the trade-economic cooperation, as well as the cultural, humanitarian relations, Solotsinsky said.

- For the last 15 years the two countries have signed over 40 agreements, which set solid legal basis for further, harmonious boosting of the cooperation, Solotsinsky said.

On behalf of the Government, Milososki extended congratulations to Russian citizens at home and those living in Macedonia on new Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Kirill, and expressed hope that he would further contribute to strengthening the ties between the Russian and Macedonian Orthodox Churches.

The celebration also saw a presentation of the prestigious Russian state award - Aleksandar Pushkin Medal to academicians Gane Todorovski and Milan Gjurcinov for their contribution to developing the Russian - Macedonian relations and promotion of Russian culture across the world. /lk/fd/14:44

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