Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski said Tuesday's meeting with Croatian counterpart Zoran Milanovic in Skopje confirmed the continuity in the exchange of opinions and positions on bilateral cooperation and foreign policy priorities.

Interlocutors agreed Macedonia and Croatia share excellent bilateral relations, which are characterized by long-standing cooperation and friendship in all fields of mutual interest.

"We agreed there is additional potential for enhancement of economic cooperation, strengthening of commercial exchange, leading to achievement of the joint objective in the coming years of making Croatia an even bigger trading partner of Macedonia", said Gruevski.

The two PMs also referred to the opportunities for cooperation in the field of investments.

"Some Croatian companies have invested in Macedonia, others are contemplating this, but they are all welcome here", added Gruevski.

Talks also focused on the EU and NATO, with Croatia's experiences of benefit to Macedonia.

"We referred to all significant issues, exchanged opinions in the fields of economy, EU accession and related policies. We have always considered and will continue to consider Croatia as Macedonia's friend. We will resume the maintenance of excellent political relations through these high-level meetings. In addition, we will encourage our companies and secure better conditions for their cooperation, but also in the field of EU and NATO", underlined Gruevski.

PM Milanovic said the blockade of Macedonia's NATO and EU integration must be overcome.

"This situation has to end. I understand the problems and fears of certain countries. History cannot be changed, but it can make many things complex. However, we are living in the presence, I know this sounds as a phrase, but Macedonia is a small country that represents no threat to anyone, a country developing a noticeable business environment", stressed Milanovic.

He said Macedonia has introduced a number of laws and tax reforms, which yield results.

"This is a well-thought out policy. In politics, one can never be certain of the outcome even when there is clear goal in place", said Milanovic.