The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, today in Villa Vodno, received the members of the Macedonian men's basketball team.

President Ivanov thanked our basketball players for enabling Macedonia to be part of the finals of the European Basketball Championship.

- It has become a tradition to meet after big successes, but after defeats, too. I think that the opportunity to cheer for the national team at a European Championship is a privilege, while being a part of the European basketball elite is a success, President Ivanov stressed.

He added that he hopes the experience Macedonian basketball players have acquired at these championships will contribute to the building of a strategy that will lead to even greater successes than the success of two years ago.

- One of the most important things is that you, with your success, have become heroes of Macedonia and now, everywhere in our country, people talk about sport, cheer and thus the feeling of belonging and national pride is strengthened. You have become synonyms of victory and the biggest benefit is that young people in Macedonia today play basketball, are devoted to sports, following your examples.

Your success, your attitude towards our country, towards the Macedonian flag and anthem has inspired many children, from early age to be active in sports, but also to love their country, President Ivanov said.

Captain Pero Antic, on behalf of all players, extended gratitude for the great support they always receive from the Macedonian President.

- As Captain of our team, I would like to say that your constant support means a lot to us, especially as it comes after such results, he said.

President Ivanov said that whenever Macedonian national team is competing, whether it is in sports, science, education or any other field, all Macedonian citizens should be united in one. Thus, we will prove that we love Macedonia, President Ivanov stated.