In support of the eighth consecutive ecological action “Tree Day - Plant Your Future”, today, the President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, along with his Spouse Maja, their son Ivan and the organizers of the event, planted cypresses in the City Park in Veles.

”This is our family’s contribution to our future through the action “Tree Day”. We support the citizens of Veles in all their activities intended for the environment. If their voice was heard in the past, such environmental disasters and harmful consequences for the health of its residents would never occur”, President Ivanov said, adding that the civil society initiatives directed towards the common good will always have his support.

The President stressed that the action “Tree Day” is a recognizable symbol not only for Macedonia but also wider in the region, where more often similar initiatives are raised. He stressed the necessity for each individual to start acting environmentally at local level and thus contribute to preserving the environment.

In terms of the support given to the citizens of Veles against restarting “Topilnica”, President Ivanov stressed that nothing is more important than the health of the citizens.

"I have supported the citizens of Veles and I continue to support them because nothing is more important than the health of the citizens. Besides clean air, cleaning of the soil is necessary. Its experts' turn now, they will recommend what should be done next. It is sad to leave such a polluted soil to the future generations", the President stressed.

According to the President, the economic development of Veles can be directed in many other areas which will not produce serious consequences for the health of the citizens. He noted that at the meetings with politicians and businessmen in foreign countries and at business forums he attends, he presents all potentials and investment opportunities in Macedonia.

"Let's hope that some of these investments will be in Veles. The only way to be competitive in the labor market during the economic crisis is to offer potential and quality", President Ivanov said.

The Spouse of the President, Ms. Maja Ivanova, also planted a tree in support of the action "Tree Day - Plant Your Future", and stated that this action contributes to building up healthy offspring and healthy future generations.

"There is nothing more precious than a human life, healthy offspring. I am pleased that this year, we, as a family, are in Veles, where young and old stood against pollution", Ms. Ivanova said, adding that there should be no single mother's tear for a sick child.

This is the second time President Ivanov plants trees in Veles. The first time was in 2009, near the lake "Mladost" in Veles.