The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, this evening in Skopje attended the traditional Iftar dinner organized by the Macedonian - Turkish Chamber MATTO.

Addressing the present public and political life representatives, diplomats, businessmen and representatives of civil society associations and organizations, President Ivanov said that the Ramadan fasting marks the spirit of the centuries-old tradition of Islam in the Republic of Macedonia.

"I am glad that today I am attending this Iftar dinner organized by MATTO, the Economic Chamber of Macedonia and Turkey which, as an organization, represents an economic and cultural bridge between Macedonia and Turkey. The successful economic cooperation is exactly an expression of current needs, but is also a reflection of the traditional relations, mutual respect and friendship. The Macedonian tradition, on the other hand, is based on the experience of our multiethnic, multi-religious and multi-lingual society that has enabled peaceful coexistence among all religions in our region for centuries. A tradition which has created solid friendships among people of different religions. A tradition which is our great achievement that we are proud of", President Ivanov said in his address.

"Ramadan is the month in which we do not think only of ourselves and our needs, but of others, of our neighbors, relatives and friends.

In these times of celebration, I wish all Muslim believers to be blessed with feelings of peace, love and mutual understanding. May the values that bring together and connect prevail and not those that divide peoples and nations.

Once again, I congratulate you and all Muslim believers in the Republic of Macedonia the Ramadan fast," President Ivanov said in his address at the dinner.