Today's meeting of Prime Ministers Nikola Gruevski and George Papandreou in Brussels is an excellent opportunity for progress on issues burdening bilateral relations, as well as assistance in moving forward the negotiating process.

At this critical moment, it is of enormous significance for Macedonia's economic growth and progress, as well as the region in general, said Wednesday U.S. ambassador to FYRMacedonia Philip Reeker in Strumica.

"Therefore, now is the right time to find a solution to the problem through UN mediation", Reeker said regarding expectations from Thursday's meeting of the countries' PMs in Brussels.

After meeting Strumica mayor Zoran Zaev, the U.S. ambassador voiced satisfaction from the achievements and the economic growth of Strumica municipality in the last few years, especially through the realization of several major projects, such as gasification, construction of the city square, filter station for cleansing of waste waters etc.

Moreover, ambassador Reeker paid a visit to two elementary schools, where instruction conditions have improved following the implementation of USAID-funded projects.