The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, along with the U.S. Ambassador, Paul Wohlers, and the Mayor of the Municipality of Tetovo, Sadi Bexheti, with children from six municipalities in Macedonia, from Tetovo, Prilep, Vrapciste, Suto Orizari, Staro Nagorichane and Centre – Skopje, presented the project “Sport as factor for tolerance, unity and respect”.

The event started in front of the Painted Mosque in Tetovo, where the dignitaries and the children were informed by the Tetovo Mufti about Islam, and heard historical data related to the mosque. Afterwards, children went along the Ilinden Boulevard to the city square and played football.

This is the fifth place we have visited as part of this activity. We have started with the Painted Mosque, being the major landmark of Tetovo, and children could learn more about Islam, because in Skopje we visited the Cathedral where they were informed about Christianity. Thus they become acquainted that Macedonia is not only a multi-ethnic, but multi-confessional and multi-linguistic country. Sport and respecting rules in sports and in life is a certain guarantee of success. Thus, young people can get to know each other and with such an attitude to continue their life and work, President Ivanov said.

Ambassador Wohlers said it was a great pleasure for him to see all children participate in sport activities. Sport is enjoyed by all children; they learn about each other, how to comply with children of different ethnic background. Macedonia is a very rich mosaic which makes it a really very special place. I hope that children will share experiences gained with the visits to the churches and mosques with their families and friends, Ambassador Wohlers said.

The Mayor of the municipality of Tetovo, Sadi Bexheti, said that they want to send a clear message that Macedonia is a country that respects all nationalities, especially after the recent events. We as Albanians in Tetovo and I as Mayor supports coexistence and we want children to enjoy today, Bexheti added.

Within today’s visit to Tetovo, President Ivanov visited the house of one person from Tetovo-a collector of gramophone records, and met with many citizens in the People’s Office of the President in Tetovo.

The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Gjorge Ivanov, at the upcoming UEFA Euro Championship that begins today in Poland and Ukraine, although a big fan of English football will cheer for a country of the region we consistently receive support from. I wish I could cheer for our team at the UEFA Euro, but it unfortunately it does not participate in this championship. I am a fan of English football, but this time I will cheer for a country of the region, the friendliest and the biggest supporter of my country. There are two countries of the region, but one is especially supportive. I will cheer for that country, President Ivanov said.