Distinguished Representatives of the Diplomatic Corps Accredited for the Republic of Macedonia,
Esteemed Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Dear Friends,

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you in Gevgelija, the city that has its spirit of hospitality embedded in its name. At the very beginning of the new 2014, I would like to wish you and your families' good health, happiness and welfare. I wish great progress and prosperity of the people and countries the Republic of Macedonia has established and promotes close and friendly relations with.

"No man is an island, entire of itself!" was written by the poet John Donne 390 years ago. Today, in circumstances of profound global interdependence, we could say that no nation stands for itself. We are not resistant to what is happening in the world, in the global economic and political processes, in the global challenges. Indeed, as the relations with other people makes a person what he or she is, so our nations benefit from the relations with other nations; relations that you, the diplomats, are most deserving for their establishment, improvement and advancement.

You contribute to the advancement and development of the relations between the Republic of Macedonia and your countries. Not only the political, trade and economic relations, but also the cultural, scientific and educational relations. But above all, human relations based on shared values and principles. Your contribution is, indeed, very important and I, personally, thank you very much for that. I encourage you to continue with your efforts and, therefore, you shall enjoy, as before, our full support.

Respected Guests,

In the past five years, the Macedonian foreign policy has been consistently led by the principle of openness to all as a leading principle.

We have invested a lot of energy in creating an environment for a more successful bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation with the countries in the immediate and extended neighborhood. In this, we have been guided by the principle that the good neighborly relations are a two-way street and that they, to the greatest extent, depend on the countries in the region.

Aware that only in unity we can build the success of Southeast Europe, we have been advocating for infrastructure, energy, economic connectivity of our countries. I am glad that at the top of the regional agenda is connectivity of the Adriatic-Ionian highway with corridors 8 and 10. It implies essential change in geography, reality and in the future of our region.

We have been promoting old and building new relations with European and non-European capitals.

We have won a great legal and moral victory in the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

In recognition of the efforts of the Republic of Macedonia to the protection and promotion of human rights and the right to human dignity, we were elected as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council. Therefore, I would like to use this opportunity to extend my gratitude to the countries that have supported our candidacy.

We have confronted the paradigm of clash among civilizations with the paradigm of dialogue among religions and civilizations. The centuries-old Macedonian tradition of coexistence, acceptance and respect of diversity, as our greatest and most precious value, has been embedded in the world conferences on Dialogue among Religions and Civilizations and the Alliance of Civilizations.

Not long ago, in my Annual Address, I have informed the public about all the successes and achievements of the Republic of Macedonia in domestic and foreign policy terms during my tenure. Nevertheless, I would like to share today with you my vision of the Republic of Macedonia and the region in the future.

Leaving behind the turbulent times of isolation, divisions and conflicts, the region is entering a period of changes for the better. The ill feelings and prejudices will completely give way to cooperation, trust and looking to the future. Yet, some old fashioned politicians are still challenging. But one thing is clear. The process of Europeanization of the Balkans has been launched and it can not be stopped. This process has, in its core, the desire of the citizens for a better life; desire that can come true earlier through integration, cooperation and mutual support, something unseen in the Balkans before. In such a reality, there is no room for close-minded politicians, whose policies are only current states of mind and do not reflect the interests of the citizens nor the wider interests.

Esteemed Excellencies,

At the outset of my speech, I said that Gevgelija is the city of hospitality that opens its doors to all visitors with good intentions. At the very beginning of 2014, the year declared as the Year of Peace, we are marking a century since the beginning of the World War I. Not far from Gevgelija, the Macedonian Front was stretched, where some of the fiercest battles that have affected the outcome of the Great War were fought. The lesson, however, was not learned, and the history repeated, but even more tragic. Finally, from the ruins and ashes of the World War II, Europe started to be built as a peace project.

Therefore, from Gevgelija, from this town near by the border, I would like to extend an invitation to our southern neighbor for cooperation and mutual support, as it is practiced, on a daily basis, by our citizens and societies.

The Republic of Macedonia fully fits into the vision of the region. As a country with great European past, we remain focused on achieving our European future. We have implemented continuous reforms which resulted in the visa liberalization; we have received positive reports of the European Commission and recommendations to start negotiations for membership of the Republic of Macedonia into the European Union.

I would like to state clearly that the status quo in terms of our European integration is not discouraging us. We are strongly determined to implement European values, standards and criteria in the Republic of Macedonia for the benefit of our citizens. We are not alone on the path we have chosen. We have, as partners, the European Parliament, the European Commission, as well as the increasing number of member-states that support the European future of Macedonia. We are particularly grateful to them.

At the very end, I would like to express appreciation for the overall support that you and the countries you represent have provided so far for the Republic of Macedonia.

Thank you.

Respected citizens of the Republic of Macedonia,

Yet another New Year is to come. Yet another opportunity to remember the achievements we have made, the challenges we have faced, and to be thankful for the things bestowed to us. The love our loved ones. The warmth of our homes. Peace, safety and security of our homeland Macedonia.

It is a time of renewed determination, optimism and hope. Time of solidarity and charity to the less fortunate and the fragile. Time to thank the brave guardians of our safety, who are the most deserving that this night Macedonia can calmly and carelessly celebrate.

Dear fellow citizens,

As a state, we have celebrated victories and faced disappointments. We were recognized, but also blocked. But above all, we remain faithful to the real values and persistent in achieving our rightful strategic objectives and determinations.

On our road, we must not forget that we will live in Macedonia as we build it. Therefore, in everything we do, we should give the best of us. As parents and children, neighbors and friends, as teachers and students, employers and employees, let us be blessed with love, thirsty for knowledge and committed to success. Let us remain faithful to the centuries-old tradition of coexistence, through mutual understanding, acceptance and respect.

And most importantly, let us compete in goodness!

I wish all citizens of the Republic of Macedonia in the homeland, and abroad, happy and joyful New Year and Christmas holidays.

Happy and Prosperous 2014!

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov

Respected citizens of the Republic of Macedonia,
Distinguished President of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia,
Distinguished President of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia,
Respected Members of the Parliament,
Respected Members of the Government,
Respected Representatives of the Judicial Authorities in the Republic of Macedonia,
Respected Representatives of the Diplomatic Corps, Representatives of the Religious Communities in the Republic of Macedonia,
Respected Media Representatives,
Esteemed Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

This is the last annual address in my mandate. Mandate that began with the trauma of the Bucharest Summit and the consequences of the global financial crisis.

Therefore, in this address, I relate my mandate with everything that happened in the past five years. Growth and development of the Republic of Macedonia in every field, but also times when hopes were turning into doubts or even disappointments.

Despite obstacles and blockades, in these past years, our international position has been strengthened. We have acquired more partners, friends and supporters in the European Union, NATO, and the world.

We have taken bold steps and we have realized that we can succeed.

As President, I have been expressing national unity and represented the Republic of Macedonia with dignity in the international political arena. I have had good and constructive cooperation with the Assembly, the Government, with all the bodies of the executive, legislative and judicial power.

Distinguished Attendees,

Highest priority during my mandate has been maintenance of peace, stability and security of the state. National security system entities have acted harmoniously and coordinated in taking measures and actions to protect the highest goals and interests. I have had good cooperation and regular contacts with the Security Council members. As a result, it is for the first time, during the term of a President of the Republic of Macedonia, that there was no need to convene the Security Council. It clearly indicates that the national security system functions.

In my tenure, we have defined the strategic directions and plans for the development and functioning of the defence system, thus enabling the Army of the Republic of Macedonia to continue fulfilling our highest strategic goals. The results speak of that.

Our Army receives the highest marks for its defence capability. It is respected in the country and abroad. It is fully operable with NATO member states and is ready to participate in the Alliance collective self-defense. With 14 successfully accomplished NATO Membership Action Plans, symbolically, we have achieved a record as the only country that is still waiting its admission and spending resources to maintain its readiness.

From peacekeeping forces from the world in Macedonia, today we have peacekeeping forces from Macedonia in the world. Our Army participates in 3 international operations led by the United Nations, NATO and the European Union.

Macedonia's commitment to freedom, peace, security and democracy in the world is internationally appreciated. During all my numerous meetings around the globe, world leaders and military commanders stress that the Macedonian peacekeepers consistently share responsibilities and risks with our partners and allies.

Respected citizens of the Republic of Macedonia,

In 2009, at the time when I took the office of the Head of State, in terms of foreign policy, the Republic of Macedonia was still recovering from the Bucharest injustice. The optimism we expected our rightful membership in NATO turned into a huge disappointment.

However, in less than five years, the things have changed because we never gave in and we did not accept unprincipled ultimatums.

We have achieved a great legal and moral victory with the ruling of the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

My entire mandate has been marked with positive reports by the European Commission on the progress of Macedonia. Five years in a row we receive recommendations to start European Union membership negotiations.

With arduous reforms, deservingly, we were given the visa liberalization for our citizens.

We had a successful chairmanship of the Council of Europe and the South-East European Cooperation Process.

We have remained committed to our European policy. As President of a European state, I have constantly reminded our European partners that the European Union is a peace project and that it will not be complete without Macedonia in it.

We have strengthened the international reputation of the Republic of Macedonia. During my term, representing the Republic of Macedonia on the international political scene, I have so far had more than 100 official, working and informal visits and participations in international events. I have had more than 200 bilateral meetings with heads of state. More than 150 meetings with Prime Ministers, Speakers and Heads of Diplomacy. During my tenure, I have had more than 400 meetings with foreign dignitaries, senior officials of international organizations and religious leaders. I have hosted more than 40 official and working visits of heads of state to the Republic of Macedonia.

I have paid equal attention to the European and non-European centers. This has, certainly, yielded results.

With the support of 177 UN member states, Macedonia was elected a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council. It is recognition of Macedonia's efforts to protect and promote human rights and the right to human dignity.

I have constantly worked on improving old and creating new friendships for Macedonia. With all United Nations Security Council permanent members, United States, Russian Federation, People's Republic of China, United Kingdom and France, we have deepened old and built new ties.

During my tenure, the number of recognitions and established diplomatic relations with the countries in the world has increased.

As a country, we have organized world conferences on inter-religious and inter-cultural dialogue. We have become recognized worldwide as a religious pluralism microcosm. We have confirmed and strengthened the role of Macedonia in the Alliance of Civilizations.

It is all due to our openness. Ever since the day of inauguration, at the initial address to this Assembly, I have promoted openness to all as the ultimate principle in foreign policy. Principle on which we have paved the path of the Republic of Macedonia to the new and emerging Eurasian markets.

I have invested my authority to a great extent in creating an environment for a more successful bilateral and multilateral cooperation with the countries in the immediate and wider neighborhood. We have initiated Regional Presidential Summits with the Presidents of Albania, Montenegro and Kosovo. At a time when it was isolated, we were making efforts to include Kosovo in the regional cooperation.

I have never forgotten Macedonian communities, not only in the neighborhood, but even beyond. Everywhere I have been, I have met them. To many deserving individuals and organizations from the Diaspora that have contributions for Macedonia, symbolically, I have expressed our gratitude by bestowing them national recognitions.

Distinguished Attendees,

I always argue that good neighborly relations are a two-way street and that they mostly depend on the countries in the region. I am convinced that the misunderstandings in the bilateral relations with the Republic of Bulgaria will be overcome. We intend to build and promote relations in the spirit of friendship and good neighborliness.
We have done everything for successful Chairmanship with the South-East European Cooperation Process. Unfortunately, the old Balkan complexes and prejudices were invigorated again in the wake of the SEECP Summit of Heads of State and Government. I was obliged, because of the state interests and dignity of Macedonia, to cancel the Summit. I did not allow the interests of the Balkan states to be settled on Macedonia's shoulders and the price for that to be paid by Macedonia.

On behalf of the state, with state decorations, I paid tribute to some of the Macedonian friends who stood behind us, recognized and supported us, when many denied and discouraged us.

Through a personal example, I have insisted during my term on active, professional and pragmatic diplomacy, but also on proactive economic and public diplomacy.

The overall diplomacy has been put in function for the economic growth of the country.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The world, 5 years, is experiencing global financial crisis. Even in such circumstances, as a state, we have managed to open the path for foreign investment in Macedonia and for Macedonian producers in foreign markets. With everything that has been undertaken by the Government, we have managed to open huge economic opportunities for our country.

We have managed to include Macedonia in the "South Stream" pipeline plan. Being energy isolated and dependent, Macedonia has emerged into energy connected and interdependent state. This secures the energy future of Macedonia.

Macedonia has become part of the initiative of the People's Republic of China for closer economic cooperation with the countries of Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe. As a result, Macedonia has a favorable opportunity for development of road infrastructure.

We have managed to set, at the top of the region's agenda, connecting of the Adriatic-Ionian Highway with Corridor 8 and Corridor 10. It implies essential change of geography, of the reality and the future of our state and our region.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Assuming the office, I have highlighted that I would strongly advocate and encourage development of democracy and support all initiatives that bring our country closer to its essence - the interest of the Macedonian citizens. With the successfully implemented early parliamentary and local elections, the Republic of Macedonia has proven to be functional democracy. However, as a relatively young democracy, we are not yet completely immune to certain problems.
In terms of internal-political affairs, the year started with a tense political atmosphere that was resolved by an agreement between the political parties, in which I took active part in the capacity of President. I was repeatedly warning that all disagreements should be settled institutionally.

In 2011 and this year, we have spent much time on such institutional barriers. However, common sense prevailed and local elections went smoothly, as it befits the Republic of Macedonia. In August 2013, the Commission on December 24 finalized its work and provided useful recommendations for overcoming the acknowledged weakness. Indeed, it is time we learn the lesson. Hence, in this fifth address I repeat: dialogue must be led in the institutions. Leadership meetings should not be convened for issues that are to be resolved institutionally.

In all these years of my term, Macedonia receives positive reports by the European Commission on its progress. This year's Report shows that the Macedonian legislation is largely harmonized with the EU legislation. That there is a serious economic, social and democratic progress made. The Republic of Macedonia, committed to the reforms, has been implementing European values, standards and criteria.

The Report contains objective assessments that, in some areas, we are advancing at a slower pace. There is assessment on the situation regarding the parliamentarism, on the interethnic relations and media culture, justice and fight against corruption. I accept these assessments as advice and indications which should be seriously considered.

As the Report points out, the key long-term reforms in the judiciary have already been completed in accordance with the European criteria. Crucial reform laws are successfully applied.

Despite the reforms, there is still work to be done. I am aware that citizens are discontent with the judicial system. The vast number of complaints I receive, indeed, concern this area. We have to be realistic. Serious reforms have been implemented and we should see the result thereof.

Respected Citizens of the Republic of Macedonia,

During my tenure, the 10th anniversary of the Ohrid Framework Agreement was marked, which is part of the Constitution of the Republic of Macedonia. The implementation of this Agreement was rated positively. Nevertheless, the institutions and procedures derived from it should fulfill their function. The previous decade was a decade of rights. The second decade of the Ohrid Framework Agreement is a decade of rights and mutual obligations for all of us. Rights and obligations deriving from the awareness of what we should be as people in order to live in harmony with each other.

Distressing are the cases of inter-ethnic intolerance among young people. Every generation is responsible to nurture and convey the Macedonian model of coexistence. Every generation is obliged to educate youth in the tradition of Macedonian coexistence, the tradition our democratic system springs from.

Throughout my mandate, I have paid overwhelming attention to promoting the Macedonian democratic model, built for centuries as a model of integration without assimilation. Macedonian way of living, in its essence, implies creation of a space in us to accept the others, without melting the others and without being melted into someone else's identity. Other cultures and religions are not a threat to one's identity, but a potential source of its enrichment.

Convinced that dialogue and mutual respect among religions are necessary for respect and understanding among believers, I have had frequent meetings with the spiritual leaders of our country, Christians, Muslims, Jews.

Guided by our tradition of coexistence, acceptance and respect for diversity, we have made Macedonia recognizable as a bridge of connecting and intertwining of religions and civilizations.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I have always tried to be with the citizens. The Cabinet and the People's Offices are always open to discussions and ideas. I am well aware of the needs, expectations and desires of the Macedonian citizens. Through the People's Offices, I regularly receive their letters, complaints and suggestions, expressing their concerns, ideas and opinions.

Citizens come to me, and I go to them. I have visited almost all municipalities, I meet our fellow citizens and I am aware of their successes and problems.

Macedonia is a synonym for a mother of many children, although different, still hers. Macedonia obliges us to build it as a homeland committed to the successful, sharing solidarity towards the poor, caring for the less fortunate, grateful to the deserving.

There are citizens and families facing poverty. Transition wounds are not yet fully healed. Therefore, we need to be in solidarity with the poor, and build together a better future. A better future for all Macedonian citizens, regardless of their affiliation.

Consistently, I am stressing that the empowerment and full inclusion of Roma in the Macedonian political, economic, social and cultural life is a permanent determination of Macedonia.

Solidarity towards the less fortunate obliges us to show continuous care for persons with disabilities and special attention to autistic children. Their involvement in political and social processes is not only their right but also our institutional, social and moral responsibility.

Granting decorations and recognitions I express Republic of Macedonia's gratitude to our expatriates and athletes, artists and scholars, our living and fallen heroes, to all those who have built themselves in the freedom, independence and collective success of our homeland.

I have been actively promoting the Macedonian science and education. In partnership with higher education institutions and MASA, we have organized significant scientific and research projects with domestic and foreign partners. These engagements have brought personal satisfaction, too. I have received 4 honorary doctorates and membership in the European and the World Academy of Arts and Sciences. It is an acknowledgment to our country, to our education and our science.

I have been paying particular attention throughout my term to the youth. I am committed to creating future for the youth and youth for the future.

Young people are our future, and yet we age as a nation. Like many other European countries, we are facing unfavorable demographic trends.

Young people are our future, yet many of them are leaving their homeland. Like almost all countries of Central and Eastern Europe, Macedonia is facing a wave of emigration of educated, skilled, talented young people. We can not prevent the human quest for happiness, but we need to continue to create conditions so that people can seek and find their happiness here. The only way to achieve this is to pay attention to the visions, desires and dreams of our youth.

I have visted the biggest Universities in Macedonia and the best students from the universities have visited me. We had frank discussions and I heard their ambitions, successes and challenges. I have encouraged them to continue to invest in their personal and collective success. I have personally brought up their positions, expectations and suggestions for improving the Macedonian higher education system to the rectors of the universities in the Republic of Macedonia. My engagement as President has not ceased with that.

I have supported young scientists, engineers and innovators. I have supported all young people with open minds. In this regard, I was especially pleased and welcome the establishment of the Innovation and Technological Development Fund of the Republic of Macedonia in which the World Bank shall be one of the finance providers.

With the School for Young Leaders, we are creating dedicated young people who will lead and manage all societal segments. I hope that with this we keep hundreds of qualified and talented young people live and work in Macedonia.

Respected fellow citizens,

In the past period, externally and internally, we have marked successes, but also faced difficulties. There has been progress and blockades. Regardless of what we have been facing with and passing through, indeed, we must not lose sight of the challenges for the future.

I was elected President of the Republic of Macedonia at a time when the tide of the global economic, financial and credit crisis was already present and felt in the economies of the European countries.
I am glad that in these 5 years we have achieved greater improvements than many have estimated. Improvements such as economic growth, reduced unemployment rate, improved conditions for doing business, increased investment.

There are still challenges. Although it is not easy to find work in the cities, many of the villages are empty, and the village land unplowed. Proper usage of the available resources is needed. We must not forget that Macedonia is primarily agricultural country.

The world economy is gradually recuperating. Leading politicians and analysts from Europe announced that the worst has passed and the situation in Europe is improving. Investors' trust is returning.

To win the trust and bring more investors in Macedonia, structural adjustment is needed. Only 5% of our companies are export oriented. Export orientation is essential. The European Union invests billions of Euros in research and development. The world is dealing with new technologies. It is necessary to invest more in education, science and research. Macedonia should participate in regional educational, scientific and research projects. We need leadership in innovation and innovative companies.

I have been constantly encouraging the companies to strengthen their cooperation with the universities and academic centers in the area of innovation, science, research and development. I have been encouraging the universities to use the legal framework and to continue building technological parks, start-up accelerators and other creative projects, thus enhancing the entrepreneurial spirit of young people. I have been encouraging the Government to continue creating appropriate conditions for practical synergy among the key stakeholders.

Respected Citizens of the Republic of Macedonia,

Among the numerous challenges, one is constantly imposed to us and hinders our future - the problem that official Athens has with our name.

During my tenure, I have always asserted that the Republic of Macedonia is ready for a mutually acceptable solution, a solution within the framework provided by the United Nations resolutions, the Interim Accord and the judgment of the International Court of Justice. The issue of identity is not part of that framework. Identity is not regulated by an act written on a piece of paper. No one can buy, steal or forge identity. I have been constantly noting that we will not allow a change to any aspect of our identity.

In the past, many have laid hands on our identity and independence. They have constantly tried to impose someone else's identity and someone else's perceptions of ourselves. At times of foreign authority, our ancestors survived the pressure. We will not succumb, today, when we have our own independent, sovereign and autonomous state. State that protects us and our interests. It will never happen again that we are imposed someone else's identity.
As state and society, we have severely reacted to all the attempts to encroach any aspect of the Macedonian identity. I have remained faithful to the position to receive a Report of the European Commission provided that it contains the adjective "Macedonian".

Dear Fellow Citizens,

Not long ago, the European Council was held and we faced again a blockade on our European path. Five years in a row, the European Parliament and the European Commission recommend immediate start of negotiations, and we are sincerely grateful for that. We are grateful to the European Council member states that supported us, the number of which is constantly increasing.

Still, five years in a row, the European Council can not reach consensus because of one member state. All the time, we are experiencing ultimatum by our southern neighbor, which concerns not only the name of the state, but the identity of the Macedonian people.

Blocking our integration into NATO and the European Union, Athens hinders our right to prosperity.

We have missed many opportunities and spent a lot of energy trying to get out of the labyrinth in which we were pushed. We have no intention to leave this problem as a legacy to the future generations. Problem we are facing due to the lack of will for good neighborly relations on the part of the political leadership of Athens.

For already 22 years, the world is hearing the untruth that the name "the Republic of Macedonia" implies territorial claims against its southern neighbor. And for 22 years, the Republic of Macedonia, in fact, refutes this lie. Nobody believes in that nonsense any longer. Our societies and economies live and work in an excellent manner, thus denying all accusations and qualifications of part of the political elite of our neighbor.

The Republic of Macedonia has always believed and enforced in practice the stance that dialogue is indispensable. Macedonia has always been guided by the principle that we must help, not obstruct each other. The faded and old-fashioned policy of denial, blackmail and threatening by our neighbor, is opposed by the Macedonian policy of good neighborliness, openness and readiness for dialogue.

The blockades, blackmails and pressures we face are arguments of bare force. Truth can be defended only by the power of argument. Hence, at all of my meetings, in the country and abroad, I have been consistently fighting with the power of the argument, pointing out the truth about Macedonia.

Those who are not facing reality, live in illusions. The Republic of Macedonia is a reality in the Balkans, a reality in Europe, a reality in the international community.

We urge and expect Athens, as a European Union member state, to treat us in a European manner. We urge and expect application of European criteria and standards for membership. Neither less, nor more. The Republic of Macedonia is a European country and deserves European treatment.

NATO functions thanks to the international agreements. The Union is based on the respect for the rule of law, international law, human rights. The cornerstone of NATO and the EU can not be a stumbling block for long. States and international organizations have a growing need for a legally defined international order.

We urge and expect the European Union and NATO to regain their credibility in the case of the Republic of Macedonia.

Respected Fellow Citizens,

On December 5th, exactly 2 years have passed since the ruling of the International Court of Justice. In the spirit of good neighborliness, we have left sufficient time to our southern neighbor of two whole years, in the hope that, in bona fide, it will meet our and the expectations of the ICJ. Expectations not to repeat its irresponsible behavior of Bucharest. Behavior which was judged as illegal by the highest legal authority in the world. Yet, Athens did not use the opportunity and continued to breach the international law. It continued to disrespect the Interim Accord and the judgment. It continued with the old blockades, blackmails and pressures, complemented with new excuses.

As neighbor, we did not want to take legal action against Athens in The Hague, but we were forced to such a step. As neighbor, we did not wish to address the United Nations Security Council, the creator of the resolutions in which the process is conducted, and to seek enforcement of the judgment and its unconditional respect. But, as it was the case after Bucharest, we have no other choice today.

Violating internationally undertaken obligations concerns the credibility of official Athens in the dispute imposed to us. We have the right and reason to doubt their willingness in respecting agreements. Respecting legal mechanisms can help us build confidence.

They can ignore, but not deny the judgment. It is here, waiting to be respected. But it can not wait indefinitely.

Conditions have been created to ask the United Nations Secretary General, in accordance with his powers, to submit a report to the United Nations Security Council on the talks led by Mediator Nimetz. Conditions have been created to urge the Security Council to give effect to the judgment of the International Court of Justice.

We will never let Macedonia's dignity to be encroached, the human rights and the right to human dignity to be denied.

Dear Fellow Citizens,
Dear Macedonians, Albanians, Serbs, Roma, Vlachs, Turks and Bosnians, Christians, Muslims and Jews...

Always, in moments of challenge, the only motivation for me has been exactly the Macedonian citizens and their desire for a European Macedonia. In moments of disappointment, the only encouragement for me has been the unity of the Macedonian multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-lingual society over the idea of Macedonia.

In spite of the challenges and blockades, we have endured in our policy. And we will endure. In the end, everything comes to those that wait. Until then, we must continue to build Macedonia in height, with the highest values, standards and criteria. We must continue to build Macedonia as advanced, democratic and economically developed state. Let us build Macedonia as home to all its children, all its citizens. Let us build it in a winning manner, in successes, as it deserves.

With the Hague we have overcome Bucharest.
With the prudent economic policy, we have overcome the economic crisis.
With openness we are to overcome the blockades.

May we never forget that our homeland is our greatest historic victory!

Long live the Republic of Macedonia!

The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, today, at the ceremony of awarding the "Boris Trajkovski" scholarships for the academic 2013/2014. The scholarships are traditionally awarded to 20 best students for the postgraduate program in Business Administration - MBA at City College in Thessaloniki, Faculty of International Studies, University of Sheffield, UK. Each individual scholarship covers the tuition feet at City College and amounts to 14.890 EUR, 50% provided by the Ministry of Education and Science, and the remaining 50% by City College. President Ivanov congratulated the scholarship beneficiaries and thus said:




Distinguished Minister of Education and Science, Mr. Spiro Ristovski,
Respected representatives of the City College,
Dear scholarship beneficiaries,
Ladies and gentlemen,

It is a great pleasure, for the fourth time, to be hosting the ceremony of awarding the scholarships which bear the name of the late President Boris Trajkovski. With his deeds, Boris Trajkovski has left a lasting mark in the Macedonian, but also in the European history. Being awarded with a scholarship that bears his name is a great privilege and honor.

The importance of today's ceremony is seen in the fact that, despite awarding new scholarships to the selected twenty candidates, the best among the best who applied at this year's call, with us here today are the scholarship beneficiaries from previous generations. It is certainly an excellent opportunity for older colleagues to share their experience of studying postgraduate studies at the prestigious Sheffield University with the newly awarded scholarship beneficiaries.

Dear students,

I would like to emphasize that the "Boris Trajkovski" scholarships open up an excellent opportunity your talent, knowledge and skills to be upgraded at a prestigious university, at the City College in Thessaloniki, within the Sheffield University. Besides the knowledge you gain from best professors, you will have the opportunity to meet and socialize with colleagues from different countries. Seize the opportunity to become familiar with new cultures, to exchange ideas and opinions, and to make new friends. Undoubtedly, these contacts and communication will be helpful in your professional and personal advancement.

I repeatedly stress that the human mind is our most valuable resource. Hence, building quality, highly educated professionals is always the most profitable investment. Macedonia needs leaders in the field of business administration, management, marketing and finance. Therefore, we invest in you with a strong conviction that you will emerge into good entrepreneurs and managers, with a successful career and liability to the society. Your future success will be success of the Republic of Macedonia, too.

I am absolutely convinced that you will utilize the knowledge gained to achieve your visions and ideas, and that your knowledge and skills will be applied here in the Republic of Macedonia, where you will continue your professional career.

At the end, let me finish with Nelson Mandela's words, who left this world today: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world". Here, I would only add: "Use it virtuously and unselfishly in building a better and nobler world".

I wish you, wholeheartedly, much success and happiness.

Thank you.

Почитуван Премиер на Унгарија, господине Орбан,
Ценети екселенции,
Дами и господа,
Драги пријатели,

Постојат две причини поради кои денешниот ден, 5 декември, влегува во историјата на Република Македонија.

Пред точно две години, Меѓународниот суд на правдата пресуди дека Грција ја прекршила својата обврска да не се противи на приемот на Македонија во НАТО. Со тоа, Република Македонија извојува голема правна и морална победа. Правдата, за жал, сè уште не е задоволена. Сè уште трпеливо чекаме да се испочитува пресудата на највисокиот светски правен авторитет.

Поради ова, некои ни замеруваат за неоснована вера во меѓународното право и во владеењето на правото, дури и во меѓународните односи. Сепак, принципиелноста на многу држави во светот ни дава надеж дека силата на меѓународното право и на владеењето на правото ќе надвладее над правото на силата. Држави, кои се наши пријатели, кои нè разбираат, нè охрабруваат и нè поддржуваат. Пријатели кои исправно го разбраа човековото право на самоидентификација и правото на човечко достоинство.

Тука доаѓаме и до втората причина поради која 5 декември ќе биде врежан во поновата македонска историја. Денес, Република Македонија јавно му се заблагодарува на својот голем пријател и поддржувач, премиерот на Унгарија, господинот Виктор Орбан. Му се заблагодарува со симболот на својата независност – Орденот „8 Септември".

Во време кога бевме обесхрабрувани, господинот Орбан недвосмислено изјави дека „местото на Македонија е во Европската унија и земјата заслужува да стане нејзина членка". Нема да ги заборавиме неговите зборови на поддршка во време кога Унгарија претседаваше со Европската унија, велејќи: „Интересите на Европската унија се Македонија час поскоро да стане член на Унијата и затоа сметам дека преговорите треба да започнат час поскоро".

Господинот Орбан кон зборовите придодаде и дела. Благодарни сме му за Меморандумот за Западниот Балкан што, во својство на претседавач со Европската унија, го прати до земјите-членки и на раководството на Унијата. Меморандум во кој недвосмислено бара од Унијата веднаш да ги започне пристапните преговори со Македонија, држејќи ја притоа билатералната разлика одвоена од преговорите за членство.

Континуирано и доследно, премиерот Виктор Орбан останува да биде глас на безгласните и застапник на обесправените. За тоа сме му навистина благодарни.

Ценети присутни,

Поддршката од премиерот Орбан претставува продолжение на долга традиција на заемно почитување меѓу пријателските народи и држави.

Наредната година ќе славиме две децении од воспоставувањето на дипломатските односи меѓу Република Македонија и Унгарија. Односи што ја одразуваат богатата историја на меѓусебното пријателство. Од средновековниот унгарски принц и македонски крал Петар Делјан, па сè до македонските преродбеници кои пред два века во Будим ги печатеа првите учебници со кои го просветуваа македонскиот народ. Пријателство зацврстено пред 70 години, кога Унгарија ги отвори вратите за македонските деца-бегалци од Граѓанската војна во Грција, и им стана втор дом на бездомните и прибежиште на прогонетите.

Дами и господа,

Поддршката, пријателството и солидарноста во односите меѓу Унгарија и Македонија треба да бидат пример за тоа како една земја-членка на Европската унија треба да се однесува кон земја-кандидат. Во очекување на декемврискиот состанок на Европскиот совет, сакаме да веруваме дека петтиот позитивен извештај на Европската комисија за Македонија конечно ќе биде прифатен и дека Унијата ќе го оправда сопствениот кредибилитет. Бараме и очекуваме еднаков третман кон сите земји-кандидати. Бараме и очекуваме билатералните прашања да не го попречуваат интегративниот процес и да се следат позитивните примери.

Независно од исходот на декемврискиот совет, знаеме дека во Унијата имаме пријатели што сакаат да ја видат Македонија во европското семејство. Пријатели како премиерот Орбан, Унгарија и унгарскиот народ. Затоа, на самиот крај, уште еднаш, во името на Република Македонија и македонските граѓани и во мое лично име, Ви благодарам, господине Премиер, за континуираната и сесрдната поддршка што ни ја давате за остварување на сонот за европска и евроатлантска Република Македонија. Ве молам ова признание да го чувствувате како израз на благодарност кон Вас лично, но и кон многуте претходни унгарски државници и кон пријателскиот унгарски народ.

Ви благодарам.

Distinguished Attendees,
Esteemed Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a real pleasure to participate in the 3rd Conference of the Center for Global Dialogue and Cooperation. Center that focuses on finding solutions for topical global challenges. I thank former President of the Republic of Bulgaria, Mr. Petar Stoyanov, for the honor given to me.

Distinguished Attendees,

Тhe hall we are gathered together today is dedicated to the ancient Greek mythological hero Hercules. Perhaps our hosts, by choosing this hall, intended to send us a message - that the challenges facing the world today require superhuman effort to be resolved.

I don't know whether superhuman effort is required, but I do know that joint effort of individuals, states, regions is necessary to overcome global crisis. Synergy is, indeed, needed.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Global economic, financial and credit crisis has created huge problems and challenges for all of us, for all our countries. As of 2008, the number of unemployed worldwide has increased several times, even in highly developed countries. Due to the lack of fiscal discipline, many countries are faced with the threat of bankruptcy, including some European Union member-states. Millions in Europe and worldwide have replaced unfounded optimism with bitter pessimism, hope with hopelessness. Meanwhile, global debt clock is, consistently and relentlessly, striking.

Global economic crisis does not go in isolation but along with other regional and global turbulences.

Dissatisfaction, isolation and resentment stemming from the economic crisis have created a fertile ground for intolerance and disrespect for diversity. The Arab Spring happened, as well as the conflicts in North Africa and the Mediterranean. The number of refugees from the armed conflicts in the Middle East is increasing. Yet another endangered category adds to this. A few days ago the world was flooded with the news of the first climate refugee from Kiribati.

If we add here the challenges faced in achieving the Millennium Development Goals, the result would be a dark picture of the global crisis. At first glance, it seems that superhuman effort is really needed for getting out of the crisis.
But what is the basis of the crisis? Man is the source of vast number of the problems and challenges our world is faced with. Hence, the answer to these challenges should be sought in the man. We do not need superhuman effort, but collective effort, unless unity is considered superhuman. Antagonisms prevailing in humanity should be replaced with synergy. The cure is in connectivity and interdependence, which implies shared rights and responsibilities.

Let's take the European Union as an example. Despite initial optimism, the Treaty of Lisbon has not fully met the expectations. The European Union aspired to be a relevant factor and actor in the international relations. It would be neither easy nor realistically feasible without adherence to three things.

First, restoration of consciousness that the European Union is primarily a peace project intended to expand the boundaries of peace, stability and prosperity in Europe. The Union should remain faithful to the great vision of a united and open continent. The fifth positive report of the European Commission on the Republic of Macedonia is a chance for the Union to justify its credibility and to enable opening of negotiations. Consistency in the enlargement policy will help the EU to remain competitive on the world stage. The European Council in December is likely to consider what happened in Ukraine. The European Council will have a chance to thoroughly devote to the Balkans. Accelerated integration of all countries in the region is needed.

Second, internal reforms of the EU mechanisms are necessary to successfully deal with crises. The rights of the member-states imply mutual responsibilities. It is enough to recall that the lack of fiscal discipline has led many states to the brink of bankruptcy.

Third, the Union committed to the enlargement and reform of mechanisms need to be open to what is a natural part of the wider and common Eurasian space. It would be best achieved by strengthening economic ties. The road to economic success goes through economic cooperation.

Esteemed Excellencies,

I have mentioned the Eurasian space. One of the topics of this conference is exactly Eurasia's positioning on the global stage. This topic is of crucial importance since it illustrates the significance of synergy through the prism of infrastructure, energy and economy.

I am well aware that sometimes there is a reductionist understanding of Eurasia - it is narrowed down to Central Asia and the Caucasus. But we need to think out of the patterns resulting from Eurocentrism and Asiancentrism. Neither Eurocentrism nor Asiancentrism have future. Eurocentrism caused dominance of Western European worldview, which, through colonialism spread throughout the world, imposing values that were alien to most non-European peoples. Asiancentrism, however, caused some sort of isolation and closure of Asia. Therefore, collective, synergistic comprehension of the things is required.

Among us today is Dr. Ismail Serageldin, Director of the Contemporary Library of Alexandria. A library which is a modern successor of the ancient Library of Alexandria. From the very beginning, Alexandria was a symbol of overcoming centrism and accepting worldview that every culture is valuable in its own way, and that every civilization can offer something. Alexandria and the library of Alexandria were the product of respect and acceptance of knowledge coming from other cultures and civilizations. They were a symbol of a synergistic approach as we need today.

Eurasia is more than the simple sum of continents and countries. Eurasia is a bridge between Europe and Asia, a bridge between various regions and countries. Europe and the European Union can not do without Asia. Asia, however, needs Europe and the European Union. We need to look through the prism of the overall profit for all of us.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Eurasia offers opportunities for collaboration, and there is potential to be utilized. Opportunities for cooperation in the field of economy, energy, trade, infrastructure and communications. This inevitably includes security issues as a prerequisite for future development, peace and economic prosperity, which is more than necessary for the world.

A growing number of initiatives, forums and conferences focus on Eurasian space in terms of current and future cooperation. Eurasia is increasingly subject of the future, not of the past. It is yet another proof that this term unites us even further.

Countries which belong to this space, but also want to be connected in certain way with this space, increasingly recognize that their progress depends on the cooperation and synergy. That their projects gain greater importance if put in the context of their neighbor. Mutual support is therefore necessary. We need the domino effect, but not of instability, as we are used to, but of mutual support and cooperation. We need that domino effect in the economic growth, as well.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Inclusiveness and connectivity are features of the new geo-cultural processes resulting from globalization. The first globalization appeared there, in Eurasia. Our cultures are products of that first globalization. Yet, the contemporary phase of globalization easily reaches all of us and penetrates through the more and more pale boundaries between East and West.

Globalization is a two-way process. It affects us, our societies and countries, but we also participate in its modeling through building and developing relations in the world.

Do we need a Heracles to achieve all these? I believe not. I think that is enough to focus on synergy, which should serve us in overcoming the global crisis. Synergy that we need to seek in ourselves, in our cooperation in the field of economy, energy, infrastructure, trade. Synergy that makes the link between cultural coexistence and economic interdependence unbreakable.

Thank you.