The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov met today with Aaron Williams, Director of the American voluntary organizations Peace Corps.
At the meeting, President Ivanov shared his high respect for the work of the Peace Corps. The President emphasized that the American citizens working as volunteers in this organization established by President John F. Kennedy continue to be a permanent link between the United States of America and the countries they had worked in. During the talk with Director Williams, President Ivanov expressed his high respect for the work done by the Corps and its volunteers in Macedonia, and regards it as a contribution of the American people to the friendship with Macedonia.
President Ivanov informed Director Williams of his decision to decorate the Peace Corps for this years’ 50th anniversary of its establishment, as well as the 15th year anniversary since Peace Corps begun its activities in Macedonia.
Director Williams received the news of the award with pleasure, saying that the Republic of Macedonia is the first country to announce such recognition for the Peace Corps ahead of its anniversary.
- It is a great honor for me to accept an award that recognizes the strong partnership between our Peace Corps volunteers and the citizens of Macedonia. Peace Corps was set up in 1961 to promote peace and friendship, and, indeed, the work we do today with the communities in Macedonia reflects President Kennedy’s vision of what public service should be – said Director Williams.
Director Williams used the opportunity to inform President Ivanov of Peace Corps’ engagement worldwide, as well as for the deep and significant mission of the Corps since its establishment by President Kennedy, including President Obama’s announcement for a significant increase of number of volunteers.
- I would like to express my gratitude to President Ivanov for his support and acknowledgment of the cooperation between the Peace Corps and the Government of Macedonia – added Stephen Kutzy, Peace Corps Country Director for Macedonia.
The Peace Corps is active in more than 70 countries worldwide. Within the organization, volunteers are helping communities in need for support in the areas of education, local development, youth work and spread of IT