In observance of the International Roma Day, 8 April, the President d-r Gjorge Ivanov organized a reception for representatives of the Roma community – politicians, artists, sportsmen, activists.

Using the occasion, President Ivanov underlined the necessity of increased action for full integration of the Roma population within the Macedonian society and throughout Europe as well. He stressed that Republic of Macedonia is a leader in providing and respecting minority rights of Roma, as equal citizens of the country.

“The situation with the Roma community in the country and the amount of rights provided, represent an example for the world. Namely, in our country Roma people have the opportunity to follow lectures in their mother tongue, to vote for their political parties and candidates, and be represented in all the institutions of the state. In Republic of Macedonia there is a municipality where the majority of the population is Roma, lead by a Roma mayor. The official language in use in this municipality is the Roma language,” said President Ivanov in his address during the reception.

2011 is the year when Macedonia is taking over the presidency with the Roma Decade, an initiative in which 12 countries are involved. “I believe that the activities envisaged within the Roma Decade for the upcoming period will lead to further advancement of Roma people lives, above all in housing, health, employment and education as key areas for quality life. I assure you that in the institution President and in my personality you can find a devoted supporter of the efforts for further improvement of the social and economical situation of Roma,” said President Ivanov.

8 April is the day when Roma culture, history and identity are celebrated, with intensified efforts for raising public awareness on the problems and the challenges Roma face in all the countries, as the biggest ethnic minority in Europe.