Vatican has once again voiced its support for the people of Macedonia. The country for 43 years continues the tradition to commemorate the Slavonic enlighteners Cyril and Methodius, which was welcomed by Pope Benedict XVI as well as the importance of spreading Christianity, President Gjorge Ivanov stated Monday in Roma after his audience with the Head of the Roman Catholic Church as part of the manifestation "Macedonia Honoring St. Cyril".

The President noted that Pope Benedict XVI was quite impressed that Macedonia was acknowledged for its religious tolerance and respect of diversities, MIA reports. The pontiff, according to Ivanov, was informed on the situation in Macedonia and wanted to know about recent developments involving the name row with Greece. This was the focal point of a tête-à-tête meeting between the President and the Pope, who wanted to know more details.

At the audience, President Ivanov presented a bronze relief with biblical scenes to the Pope, who gave Ivanov a gold medallion from the Pontificate. The relief, which weighs 250 kilograms, was created by Macedonian sculptor Marijan Kanilovski. The scene depicts a theme from the New Testament and was inspired by a dream St. Paul had when a Macedonian appeared in his dream, beckoning him to come to Macedonia. Thus, Christianity started spreading in Europe, according to the artist.

This is President's second meeting with Pope Benedict XVI in a month's time. The first one took place at the beatification of Pope John Paul II. President Ivanov in Vatican also met with Cardinal Francesco Monterisi.

Minister of Information Society and Administration Ivo Ivanovski and deputy chairman of the Committee on Relations with Religious Communities and Groups Anton Sereci, whereas the church delegation is made up of metropolitans Petar and Pimen as well as Skopje bishop Kiro Stojanov attended the audience with the Pope as well.

"The Macedonian Orthodox Church and Vatican share several mutual ties, including the commemoration of Ss. Cyril and Methodius," metropolitan Petar said expressing gratitude for the support given to Macedonian students to resume their education at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome.

The Macedonian delegation accompanied by Cardinal Francesco Monterisi are to visit the St. Paul basilica to lay flowers on the tomb of Saint Paul. Later on in the evening, members of the delegation will attend a theater play about Mother Teresa titled "Saint of Darkness".