The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, on the occasion of September 8, Independence Day of the Republic of Macedonia, sent a congratulation message to the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia.

Respected Citizens of the Republic of Macedonia,

23 years ago, united in the intention to be on their own, the citizens on September 8, 1991, on our third Ilinden, boldly, decisively and responsibly fulfilled the centuries-old dream of our ancestors for free, independent and sovereign Republic of Macedonia.

In the past 23 years, we have experienced moments of celebration and of disappointment, too. We rejoiced the independence; we endured numerous temptations, and remained faithful to our righteous path. The path was uneasy, but helped us build a strong sense of our own country, to be stronger, more united and more successful.

Today we are proud that we managed to build Macedonia as a democratic country ruled by law. Committed to achieving our European and Euro-Atlantic future, we have opened Macedonia to the world and made it internationally recognized and respected.

The third Ilinden is a day of gratitude to the heroes, Ilinden and ASNOM fighters, a day of commitment to the heroes of the future - our children. The covenant of our ancestors is to pave a secure path for our children. Every new reform, every new law, every new investment, every new job is an investment in the future of our young people.

Investing in our present is investing in their future. We continue to build Macedonia as economically strong and developed, advanced and successful country. Macedonia which cherishes old traditions of coexistence, acceptance and respect for diversity, a country of welfare and solidarity, a country of innovation and new technologies. We can achieve this only in unity, which was best proven on today's great day.

Congratulations on September 8, Independence Day of the Republic of Macedonia!

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov