Distinguished Mr. Secretary General,

Extending you the assurances of my highest consideration and appreciation for the cooperation, I would like to remind that on this day, April 8, 20 years ago, the Republic of Macedonia officially became a United Nations member state.

Availing myself of this opportunity, I would like to express my conviction that for the Republic of Macedonia it was a historical and great date, a date when my country was admitted to the large family of free, sovereign and independent world nations. Since then, the Republic of Macedonia has been providing significant contribution to all activities, bodies and policies of the world organization, and to the realization of the principles and spirit of the world organization. We have always had immediate support and assistance in our development processes, preserving the integrity, peace and stability, both within the state and beyond, in the region.

I would like to extend my gratitude to you personally for the support, assistance and your engagement, which is of significant importance for us.

At the same time, I express my conviction and the determination of the citizens of my country that the Republic of Macedonia will remain committed to the realization of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and to the success of the campaigns and policies of the world organization aimed at development, prosperity, human rights promotion and democracy in the world for the sake of humanity.

Please, Your Excellency, accept my best wishes for your health, happiness and success in the execution of your responsible mission.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov