SkopjeDiem Macedonia in English
The PM Zoran Zaev met on Thursday the Russian Ambassador to Macedonia Sergey Bazdnikin. The main topic of discussion between Zaev and Bazdnikin was the recent revelation of a recording in which two Russian pranksters deceived Zaev on the phone, making him think he is talking with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko. In the recording, Zaev accuses Russia of obstructing Macedonia’s integration in NATO. Zaev told Bazdnikin that he sees Russia as a friend of Macedonia. “Friendship with Russia certainly continues. It’s our duty to strengthen and enhance it. We’re working on new economic projects. I believe trade with the Russian Federation will also grow. Modern technologies can sometimes cause unpleasant situations like this, but countries must promote friendship,” Zaev told Bazdnikin, adding he does not believe Macedonia is a target of “special war” of propaganda, like Defence Minister Radmila Sekerisnka stated on Wednesday. Answering questions of journalists, Zaev also revealed that he spoke to Kosovo President Hashim Thaci and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic about his statements in the prank call related to the disputes between Kosovo and Serbia.
