The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, sent a congratulatory note to the members of the Bosniak community in the Republic of Macedonia on the occasion of 28 September, the International Day of the Bosniaks.

Dear fellow citizens,

On my behalf and on behalf of all citizens of the Republic of Macedonia, I would like to congratulate you on September 28th, the International Day of Bosniaks, and wish you good health, success and well-being.

Like almost all Balkan states, in one period of history, Macedonia was part of the Ottoman Empire. But, unlike almost all other Balkan states, Macedonia did not reject, but rather embraced the best and the most valuable of this heritage, and that is the model of coexistence, respect and acceptance of diversity. The celebration of September 28 - the International Day of Bosniaks is a symbolic expression of the deep and true respect that the Republic of Macedonia has for its citizens who are part of the Bosniak community.

With all its cultural, linguistic and religious diversity, the Bosniak community enriches the Macedonian multiethnic society. The actions that contribute to democratic and economic progress and the promotion of our common homeland are the best proof that you, Bosniaks, are loyal citizens of Macedonia. With all of this, you contribute to building mutual trust in our society, which we need more than ever before.

Therefore, our vow is to continue building bridges of friendship in the future and to move towards the common European future of the Republic of Macedonia together.

Congratulations on this great holiday.


Dr. Gjorge Ivanov