The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, on the occasion of the Day of Education in Turkish Language - December 21, sent a congratulation note to the members of the Turkish community in the Republic of Macedonia.

Dear fellow-citizens,

Allow me to extend to all members of the Turkish community in the Republic of Macedonia, sincere congratulations on the occasion of the Day of Education in Turkish Language.

The language is the soul of a nation. It contains the code of the identity of the nation. The possibility for education, creation and promotion in one own native language, is a value that contributes to the development of cultural pluralism in the country. The Republic of Macedonia is a mix of different cultures and religions that inter-culturally connect and unite us. Respecting tradition and commitment to fostering and promoting mutual relations in the country, we celebrate the feast of the Turkish community as a day that brings people together and strengthens mutual ties.

On this occasion, we cannot but mention the strong cooperation with the Republic of Turkey, which takes place in a spirit of friendship, mutual respect and understanding. As long-standing friends and strategic partners, we have constant dialogue and intensive cooperation in the implementation of projects in various areas.

On the eve of the celebration of the Day of Education in Turkish Language, I appeal that we need to jointly continue fostering the cultural specificities in the future together and to work on the promotion of the cultural, educational, economic and social development of the Republic of Macedonia.

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov