The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, on the occasion of the Day of Europe, May 9th, sent a congratulation note to Mr. Donald Tusk, President of the European Council.

Your Excellency,

Let me use this opportunity to convey, on behalf of the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia and on my personal behalf, the most sincere congratulations on the occasion of the Day of Europe, May 9th.

First and foremost, I would like to thank you for your participation in the meeting of the leaders of the participating countries in the Brdo-Brijuni Process in Skopje. Your participation in this event sent a positive and encouraging message on the European future of each country in the region.

"Europe is not just a continent, it is also an idea. This idea is called freedom", said the great European Coudenhove-Kalergi. As we approach the European family, we are moving the Macedonian society towards the free flow of people, capital, goods, services and ideas. Approaching the Union, we are motivated to voluntarily transform and reform for the benefit of the Macedonian citizens. The Republic of Macedonia is ready, immediately and promptly, to start the next phase of integration into the European Union, which was indeed confirmed by the latest European Commission Progress Report on the Republic of Macedonia and the unconditional recommendation for setting a date for the start of accession negotiations. Membership for us is both a right and an obligation, just as the credible European perspective in the Western Balkans is an obligation for the European Union. As a country, we remain consistent in fulfilling the undertaken obligation to implement the decision of the European Union and keep the Balkan migrant corridor closed.

I call upon you to apply the already confirmed positive practice of parallel processes of Euro-integration and overcoming open bilateral issues in the case of the Republic of Macedonia. In good faith and desire for a stable and prosperous region, mutually acceptable and sustainable solutions are possible, in accordance with international law and respect for the right to self-identification and human dignity.

With such an expectation and wishes for good health, further professional success and personal happiness, I convey to you, Mr. President, my dear friend, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov