Distinguished citizens of the Republic of Macedonia,
Honorable President of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia,
Honorable President of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia,
Esteemed Members of the Parliament,
Esteemed members of the Government,
Respected members of the judiciary of the Republic of Macedonia,
Distinguished representatives of the diplomatic corps,
Respected members of the religious communities in the Republic of Macedonia,
Respected media representatives,
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

We are about to leave behind us a year that will be remembered by many ordeals and hardships at global level. In the wider region, the Middle East and the Mediterranean, there are still rampaging conflicts, unrest and discontent that produce new victims, huge material damage, as well as new waves of refugees and countless personal tragedies.

Due to the global economic, debt and financial crisis, for many people in Europe and in the world, this and the subsequent years will be years of facing difficulties, bleakness and unfulfilled dreams.

In brief, we live in an era of global change. An era in which the world we used to know is changing. The changes at global level are really economic, but the weaknesses are primarily political.This is also present in our continent. The roles of the global actors within the international community and, thus, in the region, are changing.

New economic multilateralism at global level is established. The growing economic forces bring new needs and new forms of distribution and utilization of resources. In less than two decades, the need for drinking water in the world will increase by 35%. The need for food will increase by 40%. The demand for energy will increase by 50%. These are huge changes that will result in the need of new economic development models and new cooperation models.

Life is becoming increasingly dependent on modern technology, computerization and digitalization. The characteristics of the information and communication technologies contribute to even greater changes. Both autocratic and democratic states will use and increase the power of information technology and new media.

Yet, it seems that the cyber-era contributes to completely new forms of communication by destroying myths, fears and prejudices based on intolerance and xenophobia.

Exactly in such global and regional environment, the Republic of Macedonia has been accomplishing its goals. Nevertheless, we have managed in every domain by achieving results that need to be commended. Results confirmed in the most relevant international report.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
At macro-economic level, the Republic of Macedonia in 2012 was under a great influence of the global state of play and in particular the developments in the EU, being the most important trading partner.

In such circumstances, we have shown that we know how to deal with the challenges. The Republic of Macedonia has not been struck by the fatal wave that brought doubt and uncertainty in many European countries. Although we entered the recession in the first two quarters with GDP growth of 0.2%, we were able to get out of the recession in the third quarter.

We have a low budget deficit of 2.5% of GDP, and as of November, a low level of inflation of 3.2%. The banking system in the country is stable. With reference to the public debt, with debt rate of 30.6%, the Republic of Macedonia is among the 4 lowest-indebted countries in Europe.

According to the index of economic freedom in the world for 2012, we are ranked on the 43rd place, better ranked than seven countries from our region. According to the Forbes Global Ranking for 2012, the Republic of Macedonia is ranked at the high 37th position in the world according to the category of best country for business. In the last 4 years, through the foreign investments in the Republic of Macedonia, about 1 billion and 550 million Euros have entered.

We are the world’s third best reformer.

All this demonstrates that we are better than many countries in the region, and even better than some European Union member-states. It can always be better. There is still plenty of work to do. But, let us be realistic. Even next year, the economic growth pace will be largely conditioned by the global economy recovery.

The Project for the Technological Industrial Development Zones provides results in terms of number of employed persons, production and export. Besides attracting foreign direct investments, Macedonia is committed to providing support for local businessmen and support for small and medium enterprises. I am glad that the investments in tourism give results. This year, in the period January-October, compared to the same period last year, the number of foreign tourists has increased by 8.6%. Modernization of the airports and investment in the air traffic, introducing new flights to several European and world destinations resulted in a growth in the number of air traffic passengers for 21.5%.

I congratulate the Government and the economy on the results achieved in 2012. I particularly strongly support the Government's efforts to encourage agriculture by investing 670 million euros for the period 2011-2015. Imagine such a commitment in the past decades, instead of today! By now we would have become a regional agricultural force.

Esteemed Excellencies,
In parallel with the growth and development of our urban centers, we need to revitalize the rural areas. It is unsustainable and irresponsible to import what we can produce. There are certainly conditions for this; they only need to be utilized.

One of our priorities is to ensure energy production, security and stability, infrastructure and energy connectivity. With the accession to the "South Stream", the Republic of Macedonia ensures its energy and economic future. I believe that the access to energy sources will be an additional incentive both for foreign and domestic investors.

With approximately 250 to 300 sunny days per year, the Republic of Macedonia is a country of sun. We have to use renewable energy sources, primarily sun, but also water, wind and geothermal waters, if available. Therefore, we must start using effectively and efficiently the available energy sources.

We must not forget that development and growth of economy directly depend on infrastructure connectivity. Hence, at all meetings I raise the need of connecting the Adriatic-Ionian Highway with Corridors 8 and 10. Infrastructure and connectivity are essential prerequisites for overcoming differences, bridging and economic cooperation.

Dear fellow citizens,
We all heard last week's conclusions of the European Council. There was a justified expectation in our country and outside that the several repeated positive reports of the European Commission and the recommendations for setting a date for start of negotiations, this time would be accepted. Especially due to the fact that throughout this year the Republic of Macedonia has invested much and accelerated the reform pace. Macedonia has successfully led the High-Level Pre-Accession Dialogue with the European Union.

The Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia and its working bodies, the Prime Minister, the relevant ministers, and I personally, were fully committed to the European integration process at the many meetings and in the communications that we have had in 2012. Of all the meetings and contacts that I have had, my assessment is that the position and support for Macedonia internationally is strengthened significantly.

The judgment of the International Court of Justice has changed the perception towards the Republic of Macedonia. It has ascertained in the most authoritative and most transparent manner the correctness of our policy, for which we were accused by some from outside but also from inside. Indeed, the importance of the international law has been confirmed in the final document of this year's high-level meeting at the UN General Assembly. Document that reaffirms "the obligation of all States to comply with the decisions of the International Court of Justice in cases to which they are parties". Following this judgment, the number of our supporters, friends and partners is constantly increasing. Both in Chicago and in Brussels, for those who without arguments and contrary to the international law wanted and succeeded in blocking us, from day to day, is getting harder and harder to find reasonable arguments for their conduct. They cannot indefinitely maintain the imprudent policy of blockades.

Esteemed Excellencies,
I am personally disappointed with the outcome of this year's Summit in Brussels; I believe you are too, distinguished members of the parliament, members of the government and all citizens of the Republic of Macedonia. It seems that the old, worn-out Balkan manners, Balkan interests, aspirations and divisions still persist and are imposed on the outcomes of the European Union summits.

I have repeatedly stressed the commitment of the great Jean Monnet that only enlarged and united Europe is primarily peace project. I am afraid that the postponement of the enlargement process for the Republic of Macedonia and for the region is not helping in achieving the commitments of the founders of the united Europe. I regret that they failed to send a real message. Obviously, some people do not understand the importance of this message for us, for our citizens, for our societies in the region.

My message to those who influenced such conclusions at the Council's meeting is that they are mistaken. My message to all those who did not concur and, indeed, they were a majority is: Thank you for your courage, leadership and vision. We will never forget what you have done for us.

Despite everything, not only that we remain loyal and determined to our Euro-Atlantic orientation and integration, but we will also adhere to the recommendations and intensify our efforts. We will cooperate closely with the European Commission and we will proceed with our internal reforms. Our policy has always been and will be the European policy.

We continue with the policy of openness to all. It is a policy that helps expand the horizons of our overall, and, in particular, economic, cooperation with the world. Openness to all is my highest principle in the relations with our friends and partners. Many of my visits were focused on this. In this regard, some things we should and must have done much earlier. Only this 2012, I have paid 21 visit to foreign countries and participated at multilateral and regional meetings, including the last United Nations General Assembly. In this passing year, I have had 86 meetings with heads of state and government and highest representatives of international organizations.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
This year, with dignity, we celebrated 20 years since the establishment of our Army. As a vital pillar of our independence, the Army has provided exceptional contribution to the affirmation of the Republic of Macedonia internationally. I am aware that it would not have been possible without the diligent, professional and dedicated work of many generations. As President and Supreme Commander, I can proudly state that the Army of the Republic of Macedonia was, is and will be the guarantor of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Macedonia. Therefore, once again, I repeat clearly: there is no room for daily politics within the Army.

Marking the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Army, we mark 10 years of active contribution to the ISAF mission. In these 10 years, we have become one of the five countries contributing the most per capita in this mission. We will further adhere to this global partnership even after 2014. As an active participant in the ISAF, Macedonia shares the responsibilities, obligations and risks. At the same time, Macedonia expects to share the rights and benefits deriving from the membership.

Esteemed Excellencies,
As regards the talks on the name issue, I must say that, as before, we apply sincere and committed approach. We are expecting the new round of meetings with Mr. Matthew Nimetz, something that I personally discussed with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. On this occasion, I would like to make it clear, first to my fellow citizens and then to the international community, that a mutually acceptable solution can be reached if we are not faced with ultimatums and requirements detrimental to our national interests and identity. Everyone has a feeling of belonging and shall be free to express it. "Human dignity is inviolable. It must be respected and protected". This is written in Article 1 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights", is stipulated in Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Every citizen of every country in the neighborhood may feel as he prefers, but it is unacceptable that we are requested to feel as others prefer. I have always reacted and I will react in future when any aspect of our identity is concerned, because identity is one of those fundamental categories that one can not compromise with. It is something that no one in this world talks of, and we do not want and we will not talk of it, too. I urge stringent observance of the framework in which the talks are led, namely, the resolutions of the United Nations, the Interim Accord and the judgment of the International Court of Justice.

I repeatedly ask the most responsible in the process, the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and mediator Matthew Nimetz, to keep the process within the set frameworks. Indeed, as the Secretary-General himself said during his recent visit to the Republic of Macedonia: "I would never accept a compromise when it comes to ... the fundamental human rights and dignity ..." The assessment is that any inadequate solution can have a very adverse impact on the entire region. We hope that in the time ahead, the process will be led in a spirit of tolerance, mutual understanding and reason, something that we, as a party, have never lacked.

The Republic of Macedonia has always believed and applied in practice the stance that dialogue is indispensable, particularly in terms of good neighborly relations, which, however, are a two-way street. We must help and not obstruct each other. Blockades and obstacles are also detrimental to those that impose them, and the greatest victim is our region as a whole. We are completely open to all our neighbors. We will further strive to develop good neighborly relations. Unacceptable are all accusations of alleged irredentism and nationalism that comes from Macedonia. Because life is short, and the neighbor is eternal.

Therefore my message to you would be: let us not create false perception of the situation regarding the good neighborly relations. The real picture is that the Macedonian society has no problem with any neighboring society. What kind of a distorted prism we should look through in order to see, in this real cooperation, absence or lack of good neighborly relations? The countries from our region simply can not let the past further steal the present and the future.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
We demonstrate our continuous and strong commitment to the region in words, numerous initiatives and deeds. Now, we have successfully taken over the chairmanship of the South East European Cooperation Process. It is the oldest, authentic regional initiative, which was not imposed to us, but it emerged out of the desire of the leaders in the region to cooperate.

Simultaneously, we will host the 11th Annual Forum of the Dialogue among Civilizations, initiated by President Trajkovski, in cooperation with UNESCO and the Council of Europe, with focus on youth. Next year we will also host the Third World Conference on Dialogue among Religions and Civilizations.

I expect 2013 to be a year when the reform course continues in areas where additional progress is needed. The European Commission Report is the most important roadmap.



Ladies and Gentlemen,
This year again, the Republic of Macedonia received absurd or insulting statements by few "on duty" politicians from the neighborhood pertaining to our inter-ethnic and inter-neighborly relations. We have not succumbed to any provocations. Our people throughout the past centuries have survived much. We have acquired great wisdom, toughness and strength. Such statements for daily political use neither could nor can in the future breach the centuries-old good neighborly relations of our peoples in this region. Our ties with the neighborhood are deep, family, friendly, business, sports, cultural, spiritual ... Not a single incident of a power-hungry individual at any cost can change this. If someone thinks that such behavior can divide and disturb the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia, obviously he is not aware of the characteristics of our people as moderate and wise people.

In our region, not only in the Republic of Macedonia, there are still individuals who dream of radical ideas and myths of great countries. My response to these ideas would be the thought of one of the fathers of Europe, the great Kalergi, who 90 years ago said: "There is but one radical way to a permanent and just solution of the European frontier question, and that is: not the alternation, but the abolition, of those frontiers."

We must never allow the inter-ethnic relations in the Republic of Macedonia to be at stake. All communities in the Republic of Macedonia have lived for centuries peacefully, in the spirit of mutual cooperation and respect.

Although it has already been said, I will reiterate: With the implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement we have achieved a level of greater understanding, respect and tolerance. We have built a model that aims to integrate, not to assimilate. Strict adherence to the basic principles of the Ohrid Framework Agreement is needed, as well as political process which will be conducted in that framework.

Regrettably, this year we saw several unacceptable events which disturbed the citizens and which are not appropriate to what we have been building so far as a country. We witnessed several incidents, tensions and even tragic cases. The worst is that in those cases many young people were, and even today are, involved. I am personally very concerned with this because, except as President, my determination is for peace, coexistence and tolerance. I urge all those who instigate and are engaged in these offences, give serious consideration of the consequences and be aware that justice will come. No one will be unpunished.

If someone thinks that the feelings or symbols which are sacred to our citizens can be ignited with a word or a deed is really mistaken. It cannot be allowed two million citizens to be kept in fear by a few who do not think well to anyone and who are inspired by dishonest motives.

The responsibility of all key actors in promoting tolerance and inter-ethnic coexistence is obligation and responsibility of us all. Here, I do not only think of political actors, but I think of the media, religious communities, local communities, sports federations. It is not by accident that I mention the importance of sports in this field. As rare any other social activity, sports has the power to attract, mobilize and inspire individuals and communities. Sport helps us promote ideas of peace, tolerance, justice, nonviolence and solidarity.

Consequently, this year I was the patron of the project "Sport as Factor of Tolerance, Unity and Respect". Project which involved thousands of students Macedonians, Albanians, Turks, Roma, Serbs, Vlachs, Bosniaks. We were together in sports and together we visited religious temples and cultural-historical monuments. Children from Prilep, Shuto Orizari Vrapchishte, Centar, Tetovo and Staro Nagorichane sent a message which was internationally recognized. This project was awarded with a special recognition by Prince Albert II of Monaco at the International Forum "Peace and Sport" in Sochi, Russia.

Ladies and gentlemen,
This year, in this Dome, in the Parliament, among the parliamentary groups, there was prolific, sometimes tight and not always productive democratic debate.

In the new year, citizens expect more solutions and less problems. Democracy implies struggle of ideas but it fulfills its purpose only if it delivers and implements solutions to everyday problems of the citizens.

In the new year, citizens expect unity on key priorities of the Republic of Macedonia. Such a consensus exists in the reality, but in the fierceness and emotion of the political struggle sometimes we lose sight of the image we sent to the citizens, to our Diaspora, our partners from abroad and the investors. One of the key priorities is development of economy and decrease of unemployment and poverty. I commend on all efforts in this direction and I believe that they will continue with the same pace. But if we create barriers on that path and act in spite, then we are extremely irresponsible.

These days, in this Dome, there is a harsh and unproductive debate on the adoption of the Budget of the Republic of Macedonia. I have to say that this concerns the citizens. I urge that a prompt way out of this situation is found. Citizens expect this from you. The entire society, with all its needs, can not be held hostage to irresponsible behavior. If it happens that, due to the irresponsible political behavior, Macedonia suffers economic damage, how you would be able to face the citizens tomorrow and ask their confidence. When it comes to the interests of the citizens and to the undisturbed functioning of the state, then there is no room for partial interests. It really concerns all of us. The Republic of Macedonia.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
I urge the coming local elections to be at the level of the highest democratic standards, a level that has already been achieved in the past few election cycles. I am convinced that it is necessary the Parliament as a whole, and all other entities involved in this process, such as the NGOs, media and religious communities to ensure all necessary conditions.

People's real life takes place at local level. I am confident that together we will ensure that all citizen equally, justly and independently elect their respective local government – the apparatus that should serve their needs, regardless whether the needs of the citizens in Shar Planina or Veles, Mariovo or Kichevo, Strumica or Skopje or of other citizens.

Respected citizens of the Republic of Macedonia,
We all ask ourselves what the next year will bring. Leading politicians and analysts from Europe announced that the worst is already past and that the state of affairs in Europe is improving. Confidence of investors returns. Private capital flows again in the countries most affected by the crisis.

This is good news for us. The European countries are the most important economic partner of Macedonia. What is a priority for Europe must be a priority for us. And that is reducing cost, placing new products on the market, boosting export - these are the assumptions for the development of Macedonia.

In the next period, in the field of economy, we should focus on the priorities that will mark our 21st century. These are water, food, energy security, and information and communication technologies.

Those countries that have experienced strong growth started the reforms with a careful privatization, export-oriented economy and many investments in science. There was inadequate privatization, mainly import-oriented economy and almost no investment in education and science in our country. In the last years, we are investing strong efforts to remedy everything that is missed. But I think we should be even more decisive and bolder in that direction. Especially when it comes to investing in science and research.

We can not open the new door - the door of the future, with the old key. Therefore, it is necessary to work systematically and in long-terms in order to foster innovation and creation and create and educate generations with open minds who will think outside the patterns, who will innovate new solutions.

At the regular meetings I had with the best students from the universities in the Republic of Macedonia I learnt of the challenges they face. Not only the curriculum should be adjusted and enhanced, but also the manner and the model of transfer of knowledge.

Instead companies to invest additional resources in training graduates, they should acquire that kind of practical knowledge during their studies. When they have new ideas, and are willing to experiment. Therefore, I encourage all universities to start the establishment of technological parks. To establish business incubators, where students can practically apply the knowledge during their studies. Indeed, they will be prepared not only for the local but also for the global market.

We really have positive experiences in this field with the School for Young Leaders. These young people acquire knowledge and skills that will build their success. In every field, Macedonia has success stories, success examples, and successful people.

Macedonia is not just here. It is everywhere where people from Macedonia are successful. I am impressed by our young people I meet throughout the world. Despite official diplomacy, cultural, economic, military diplomacy are real promoters of our homeland.

As President of all citizens of the Republic of Macedonia, I would like to address today every citizen individually. I would like to recollect the ideal of many generations, the ideal of the united Europe without borders.

When the fathers of Europe, Jean Monnet and Robert Schuman, laid the principles of its historic building, they actually prepared the path, not only the states to be united, but all well-meaning people to be united on the continent that lived before in armed conflicts and destruction of the human ideal.

There are exactly thirty days to the great jubilee of the modern European history. Europe, in its entirety, next year will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of the Franco-German friendship. On January 22nd, 1963, Charles de Gaulle and Konrad Adenauer signed the famous Elysee Treaty which was the foundation for the future vision of Europe of peace. This same document created the conditions for the establishment of the Youth Cooperation Foundation between the two countries.

Imagine what would have the Balkans looked like today if immediately after the end of the Cold War it had followed the Franco-German example. But it is never too late. I hope that we, the Balkan nations, will gather the strength to look into the future as France and Germany did in 1963.

In the year of marking this anniversary, we should make this inspiration concrete. Let us create a place where young people from the Balkans cooperate in all areas. Let us create future for the youth and youth for the future. Let us guide and project the future, not only expect it.

Let us build Macedonia in height. With highest standards, highest principles, highest values. In addition to this, let us be reminded of the covenant left to us by St. Clement of Ohrid – to compete in goodness.

Congratulating you the upcoming holiday season, I wish you and your family good health, happiness and prosperity.

Thank you.

Your Holiness Stefan, Archbishop of Ohrid and Macedonia,
Honorable President of the Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Mr. Kambovski
Distinguished Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

At the very beginning, let me extend to you, to the participants and institutions bearing the name of St. Clement and to all citizens of the Republic of Macedonia, my congratulations on tomorrow’s great religious and national holiday.

Distinguished guests,
This year in St. Sophia we celebrated 45 years of the restoration of the Archbishopric of Ohrid – the Macedonian Orthodox Church. We also celebrated 45 years since the establishment of this temple of science and art – the Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts. The link binding these two pillars of Macedonian authenticity is the work of St. Clement of Ohrid, the first Slavic Archbishop, founder of the first Slavic university, saint and teacher who fed, through education, the hungry and thirsty for knowledge, truth and wisdom.

As many new buildings are built on the foundations of old houses, each generation surpasses the previous one, since it stands on the shoulders of the previous generation. Part of the foundation of our generation is set upon the works of the Slavic educators.

At a time when many had eyes but failed to see, and had ears but failed to hear, when illiteracy reigned in Europe, the holy brothers Cyril and Methodius emerged as “light of the darkened, teachers of youth” and with their mission they “made the darkness disappear, enlightened people with literacy”, as it is written in their hagiographies.

Their work was continued and upgraded by St. Clement and his spiritual brother St. Naum. They, in our spiritual and cultural capital, founded the Ohrid Literary School, the oldest Slavic University. University which became a literary hub of the Slavic language. University which is shining like a lamp throughout history, conveying the work of the Thessaloniki brothers from one to another generation in all Slavic countries. University which today, 11 centuries after the death of St. Clement, is restored.

We, as human beings, are subject to natural laws. Every one of us is born, grows, develops and dies. However, we will only be remembered for what we leave behind. We, like many generations before us, remember St. Clement because of what he left us as a lasting legacy.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Every generation has its own struggle. St. Clement’s struggle was with illiteracy, ignorance, and spiritual and intellectual blindness. Today, we dispose of knowledge, literacy and information. In the academic 2011/2012, there are approximately 200,000 students in primary and secondary schools, and at the 14 public and private universities in the Republic of Macedonia, about 58,000 students enrolled in the undergraduate studies. In the higher education institutions in the Republic of Macedonia, there are about 3,600 teachers and associates. With the Bologna Process, Macedonian students are part of the single European educational space. About 55% of the households in the Republic of Macedonia have access to Internet. Around 940,000 Macedonian citizens are using Facebook. But also, we live in a time when science gathers and generates knowledge faster than the society can wisely make use of it. However, knowledge without wisdom is unproductive.

Therefore, the struggle of our generation is to invest the accumulated intellectual capital in the youth. To apply and to put the accumulated knowledge in function of creating advanced, European Macedonia, and of meeting the real needs of the citizens. The wisdom left to us by St. Clement can help us in this regard. Wisdom we can understand only if we dive into the depth of his epistles, lessons and hagiographies, but also out of his life.

The following is what was written for St. Clement by his disciples: "We have never seen him idle, he was either teaching children, in different ways - showing the forms of the letters to some of them, explaining the meaning of what is written to others, and telling third how to write, not only during the day, but also at night, or he was praying, or reading, or writing books, and sometimes he simultaneously worked on two things: writing and conveying certain knowledge to children because he knew that idleness is teacher of all evil, as told by one of its servants - the wisdom, the teacher of all good".

I would like to emphasize two key messages. Idleness is teacher of all evil, while wisdom is teacher of all good. This great truth echoes through the ages and is equally important today in our globalized world. This is a moral lesson for all pupils, for all students, for all teachers, for everyone willing to learn and to develop. Therefore, let's go for the wisdom, let us not be idle. Through new technologies and the Internet, all world libraries and all human knowledge is at our disposal today.

Distinguished guests,
We live in turbulent times in which the pace of life leaves almost no room to think of our behavior towards other people and their behavior towards us. St. Clement teaches us to compete in kindness. In his teaching about Jesus' Birth, St. Clement writes: "Let us be sober and with clear conscience enter into God's body and blood, free of enmity against anyone; relieved of hypocritical love, but rather, to respect each other from the heart, and thus, be the sons of the Almighty and participants in the Heavenly Kingdom..."

The overall work of St. Clement leads us to the highest ethical values and principles. To have personal and professional integrity. To be responsible, because every entitlement implies responsibility. Our responsibility is to protect and promote the right that many centuries ago was obtained by the All-Slavic saints and teachers and which was strengthened by St. Clement of Ohrid - the right of the people to speak, write and read its own language. To abide by the laws and rules, and to respect others if we want others to respect us. In our diligence, commitment to the execution of tasks and the will to take actions, we need to resemble St. Clement of Ohrid. These are features of virtuous people; such is the wish of the great educator to shape the students from his university accordingly.

As "a good tiller of good roots", he invested his entire earthly life to provide enlightenment to those who had eyes but failed to see, and had ears but failed to hear, and had a language, but failed to speak. Even today, St. Clement is the helmsman of our language, corrector of our words. We must never forget that all generations from then till now result of that investment. Every spoken thought, every written and read word, every published book in our Macedonian language is fruit of the seed sown by the educators. Maybe that is the reason why St. Clement in the frescos and icons is always depicted with a big head, because among the people, he is a synonym of brain, science and knowledge. People had great respect for the great teacher.

That brings us to another great message we have inherited from St. Clement: respect for the ancestors, for the teachers, for those who helped understand the world and our position in it.

To understand the student, one should understand his teacher first. Constantine the Philosopher said: "For me, there is nothing more important than learning. Through learning I will gain wisdom and will seek for ancestral honor and wealth". For St. Methodius, indeed, he wrote that "he shines like the sun with his enlightenment words and teachings".

Ladies and Gentlemen,
The harvest is plentiful, but the harvesters are few. The seed sown by Cyril and Methodius has given rich fruit. The first Harvester was Clement of Ohrid. Even today we nourish ourselves with the spiritual and intellectual food left by our great teacher. It is up to us to preserve his legacy and to enrich it further with knowledge and wisdom and than transfer it to the coming generations.

Thank you.

Distinguished Mr. President Vujanovic,
Distinguished Mr. President Nishani,
Distinguished Madame President Jahjaga,

At the outset, let me express my thankfulness to our esteemed host, President Vujanovic, for the extended hospitality in the splendid city of Budva. By organizing this, fourth in a row, regional presidential summit, the first cycle of meetings has been accomplished, aimed at enhanced bilateral and regional cooperation and European future for our citizens.

We all know the rules of the game. Exchange, cooperation and unity for all issues of common interest. Starting from European and Euro-Atlantic integration, through strengthening of the democratic processes, the rule of law and implementation of European reforms; through economic cooperation, energy and infrastructure connectivity, cross-border cooperation, fight against organized crime and corruption, to environmental protection and cooperation in the field of education, culture and tourism.

Our peoples often say for someone who has said an obvious thing that he has “re-discovered America”. Our expectation today is, indeed, not to do what Columbus did exactly 520 years ago. We are here to find a way how to make the capital functional which has been accumulated in the past three years, since the commencement of this regional cooperation. We are here to see how this regional cooperation can be put in place for the real needs of the citizens of our countries.

The lowest common denominator of our regional cooperation should certainly be the good neighborly relations. We must not lose sight of the fact that the good neighborly relations are a two-way street. This kind of cooperation is, however, a crossroads of more intersected two-way streets. It speaks of the great possibilities and potentials for cooperation that need to be further exploited.

Good neighborly relations are essential so that we can better and faster hook our crossroad to the European institutional highway. Neighborly relations, along with regional cooperation, are indispensable tool to change the perception within our region and towards our region and a prerequisite for continued EU integration.

Distinguished attendees,

Not long ago I participated at the PanEuropa Congress in Vienna, where I spoke on behalf of all the countries that are in the waiting room of the European Union. On that occasion, I reminded the European leadership that despite enlargement fatigue, there is also tiredness of waiting. I stressed that it is time to speed up the enlargement process for the countries of our region to be admitted in our common home - Europe.

In the past period, our region, in general, has made a step forward in the European integration. Croatia is at the gates of Europe. We experience Croatia’s success as our success, as success of our region. However, we must not forget the other countries in the region that are still stuck in the waiting room of Europe.

In October this year, the European Commission recommended Albania to be granted candidate status to join the European Union. Bosnia and Herzegovina is preparing to submit its application for EU membership, Montenegro started its accession negotiations, Serbia is already a candidate country. Macedonia is a candidate country since 2005, and is eagerly awaiting the date to start negotiations. Few weeks ago, we received the fourth positive European Commission Report on Republic of Macedonia’s progress. In the report, the European Commission, fourth time in a row, recommends the European Council to start European Union membership negotiations with Macedonia. It is time to accelerate the enlargement process and our countries be admitted to our genuine home - Europe.

There is a new window of opportunity in front of us. We are eagerly waiting the conclusions of the European Council sitting next week. I believe this is a chance for the European leadership to show consistency with the primary idea of Europe as a peace project. Whilst pessimists see the crisis as a threat, optimists see it as an opportunity. The crisis facing Europe bears in itself exactly an opportunity to attain the vision of the fathers of Europe.

It is true that some things do not depend on us. However, there are many things that do depend on us. Notably, good neighborly relations, as I said, are a two-way street.

Indeed, we want to be not only part of the European institutional highway, but also physically and realistically connected to the European infrastructure and energy corridors. Geography determines economy and politics, but also security and stability.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Last year in Ohrid, my proposal was one of the priorities to be the provision of energy security and stability, infrastructure and energy connectivity for our countries.

I am strongly convinced that connecting the Adriatic-Ionian Highway with Corridors 8 and 10 is an excellent opportunity to achieve this goal.

Adriatic-Ionian Highway enables connection of Central Europe to Greece, to Turkey, to the ports. We must not forget that the level of cooperation between our economies, our business communities is really dependant on the infrastructure connectivity.

We can sign a number of memoranda of understanding and cooperation agreements in the field of economy, but only if our corridors are physically linked, this cooperation would bring true and long-term positive results, beneficial for our countries.

I assume that we should give this initiative a chance. I deem that we need to open the road, in the truest sense of the word, to our business people, our companies, to collaborate, to be connected. As the Republic of Albania and the Republic of Kosovo need to join the Corridor 10, the Republic of Macedonia needs to join the Adriatic-Ionian Highway. And we will all benefit from it. Our countries and the countries of Central Europe will have an alternative route to supply its markets, as well as for tourist travels to the East.

Einstein said that time and space is relative. And he was right. Today, time passes so quickly. Patience of industries, companies, travelers is diminished. Connecting Corridors 8 and 10 with the Adriatic-Ionian Highway will significantly reduce the time required for transport of people and goods, and thus will narrow the space.

Economic indicators speak of the necessity. Trade exchange of the Republic of Macedonia with your countries in the course of this year is approximately 350 million Dollars. It is far below the level of our political relations. I believe we can do much more in this regard. Not only to increase the trade, but also to be present jointly in third markets. Our intention is to replace the economic dependence of our countries and our region with economic interdependence.

We need cooperation in utilizing the Union’s pre-accession funds through joint projects. The cooperation will, thus, be fostered and the unity further promoted on the path to the European Union. As most successful are proven, within the European Union, those regions that have cooperated in the projects.

Excellencies,

Today we are in this wonderful old city that 33 years ago most directly felt the wrath of nature. The earthquake that struck Budva in 1979, as well as the 1963 Skopje earthquake, reminds us that disaster risks are a reality we have to bear in mind.

We can not stop earthquakes and climate change. Oftentimes, we can not prevent violent fires, coming floods and stifling droughts. Even epidemics, pollution and nuclear accidents are sometimes a real challenge for our capabilities. But we can and must help our countries get prepared. We can and must be prepared for the future predictable and unpredictable risks, in order to provide a safer future for our posterity. Disaster risks never acknowledge and recognize political, ethnic or religious differences and national boundaries. Disaster risks are a reality we can best face only if we collaborate for the benefit of all.

Cooperation is necessary in the field of environmental protection, too. Mountains, lakes and rivers were once seen as natural boundaries that separated us. Today they must be seen as something that connects us through the shared effort to protect them. Policy and decision makers are responsible for the present generation, but also for the generations to come. We must not forget that the present is something that we borrow from the future generations.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today’s discussion topic is: Cooperation towards Progress: Challenges and Responses.

One of the challenges we constantly face is the negative image that exists in the world for our region. In part, that image is a result of the recent turbulent past that we slowly leave behind us and focus on the future. But this negative perception is also sustained by a contemporary problem, and that is the organized crime and corruption. Joint efforts are needed in the fight against the cancer that destroys our societies, economies and systems.

As for organized crime there are no ethnic, religious nor language barriers, for the competent authorities of our countries there should be no barriers as well in the fight against organized crime and corruption. Security for our citizens, for our societies and countries is what we want.

In light of this is the rule of law reform. We are not implementing the reforms only for the sake of Brussels and the European Union to which we strive. We are primarily implementing them because of us, our citizens. There is a lot we can share with others; we have experience that we can exchange.

It will contribute to strengthening the overall security and stability of our country and our region.

Esteemed Colleagues,

I am confident that working in close cooperation on these issues, we will build a region in which geo-cultural reality, cultural, ethnic, religious, linguistic diversity will be respected. It is the only way to build relations in which the resolution of all outstanding issues will be carried out through dialogue. Only in this way we will create stability and security for every one of us, we will create economic interdependence.

Thank you.

Distinguished President of the European Council Van Rompuy,
Vice Chancellor of the Austrian Government and Foreign Minister Spindelegger,
EU Commissioner Mr. Hahn,
Distinguished President of the International Paneuropean Union, Mr. Terrenoire,
Your Royal Highness, Karl von Habsburg Lothringen, President of the Austrian Paneuropean Movement,
Mr. Alois Mock, President of the European Society Coudenhove Kalergi,
Your Highness Prince Nikolaus von Liechtenstein, Vice-President of the European Society Coudenhove Kalergi,
Honorable members of the European and the Austrian Parliaments,
Excellencies,

At the very beginning, I wish to congratulate President Van Rompuy for the prestigious prize bearing the name of one of the greatest Europeans.

I am here today to speak on behalf of my country, the Republic of Macedonia, but also on behalf of the European countries whose dream, motivation and goal is to be part of the European Union.

Coming from a region that was first associated with Europe – the region of South East Europe, I can share with you my perception of the region’s destiny and future prospects. History has thought us that our region lived in peace and prosperity in times when it was part of an open space. Only when the region was isolated and divided within itself did it suffer decline, poverty and wars.

The last decade of the 20th century was a time of isolation and division. The first decade of 21st century was time of healing of the wounds. The second decade must be the decade that will bring the region into its rightful place within Europe. More than ever, we now need the European Union as a peace project. The very project for which the European Union received the Nobel Peace Prize this year. After Pax Romana, Pax Byzantina, Pax Ottomana, we need what I call Pax Europea.

Esteemed Excellencies,
Today we celebrate 90 years of a dream and a brave vision published under the title “Pan-Europe”. In it, Count Richard Coudenhowe Kalergi said that “There is but one radical way to a permanent and just solution of the European frontier question, and that is: not the alternation, but the abolition, of those frontiers.” I think this is one of the purposes for which the fathers of Europe envisioned the European Union. The one frontier that is still dividing Europe cuts right through the Balkans. But, we in the region hope this frontier will soon be diminished.

Croatia is in front of the gates of Europe. We are truly happy for Croatia's upcoming membership. Still, we must not forget the other countries of the region which are still stuck in Europe's waiting room. This October the European Commission recommended that Albania be granted EU candidate status. Bosnia and Herzegovina is preparing to submit its application for membership in the European Union, Montenegro begun its accession negotiations while Serbia is already a candidate state. Macedonia has been a candidate since 2005 and now eagerly waiting for a date to begin the negotiations. It is time to speed up the enlargement process and accept the countries of my region into their rightful home – Europe.

"If we succeed in uniting Europe, we will finally have world peace," Dr. Otto von Habsburg said in this very hall, on the eve of his 95th birthday. He is no longer with us, but he has left a crystal clear vision of what Europe should aim at. On the conference of the International Paneuropean Union held in Ohrid in 2007, he said: "In five years I will be 100 years old, and I want by then Macedonia to join the European Union". In few days we will mark the 100-year anniversary of his birth. Regrettably, his vow has not been fulfilled yet. Now, we have another window of opportunity to fulfill the wish and vision of this great European.

Ladies and gentlemen,
Few weeks ago, we received the 4th positive Progress Report on the Republic of Macedonia from the European Commission. The report emphasizes that my country fulfills the political criteria for membership in the European Union. In the report, the European Commission, for the 4th time in a row made recommendations to the European Council to open negotiations with my country for membership in the European Union.

I am very happy to be here with you today because this recommendation clearly echoes the numerous strong and unambiguous resolutions by the International Paneuropean Union in support of my country. On behalf of the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia and on my personal behalf I want to thank the International Paneuropean Union for its continuous support in this end.

Paneuropa has underlined the principle that all European states that meet the requirements for membership in the European Union in terms of democracy, the rule of law and the economy must be given the possibility to attain it; that each European country has the right to membership of the European Union. The acknowledgment of this principle is the prerequisite for a true and credible policy of European unification.

Dear friends,
This is my second visit to Austria in a week. Last Friday I took part at an international conference in Graz titled: "Leaving Europe's Waiting Room. Overcoming the Crisis of EU Enlargement in the Western Balkans." At the conference I posed the question: What does it mean and how does it feel to be in the waiting room of Europe. Unfortunately, it's a feeling shared by several European countries among which is my own, Macedonia. I also said that while there is talk about the tiredness of enlargement, there is also tiredness from waiting.

The political Copenhagen criteria for membership requires that candidate country has achieved stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights, respect for and protection of minorities. So, one of the key political criteria is securing human rights. One of the fundamental human rights is the right to identity, the right to self-identification of any individual or group. The Republic of Macedonia is therefore obliged to protect the right of its citizens for self-identification. It has to respect and guarantee the identity and human dignity of its own citizens.

The problem arises when an additional condition is added to the criteria – the demand that my country agrees to change the identity of its own citizens. Clearly, we have a collision of the official criteria and the additional condition.

Otto von Habsburg revealed to us the secret of Europe – unity in diversity. We, the European nations aspiring to join the European Union, want to contribute to Europe's unity by adopting and applying the European values, criteria and standards. We want to contribute to Europe's diversity with our separate and distinct identities, cultures and languages, and to be respected for it. This is a value that implies the right of self-identification and fundamental human dignity.

The European Union, too, is based on the idea of unity in diversity. It is unconceivable, therefore, to accept and allow the denial of the existence of any part of its diversity.

Ladies and gentlemen,
"Europe is not merely a continent, it is also an idea. This idea is called liberty." Said Coudenhowe Kalergi in his Appeal to Europe. Following this statement we can argue that the greatest danged for Europe comes from the enemies of liberty. In the 20th century we saw the rise and fall of some of these enemies of Europe – Fascism, Nazism and Communism. Today we see the rise of intolerance, chauvinism, ethical and moral decay.

Today we witness how right Count Richard Kalergi was when he said: "Pan-Europe is impossible unless the minorities of every nation gain their rights. This must happen in order that every European, regardless of language, condition, race, nationality, or religion, can proudly assert, 'I am a free European.'"

I am Macedonian which means I am European. And as a Macedonian and European I want what is best for Macedonia and for Europe. Just as democracy needs democrats, Europe needs Europeans, European citizens. We are waiting for our citizenship. We, the nations in the waiting room of the European Union, are here to contribute with their full potential.

We owe this to the great men like Count Richard Coudenhowe-Kalergi and Otto von Habsburg. We owe it to ourselves. But, most of all, we owe it to our posterity.

Thank you.

The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, at a ceremony today awarded the 2012 “Boris Trajkovski” scholarships for post-graduate studies at the City College, Faculty of International Studies at the Sheffield University, UK, in Thessaloniki. Traditionally 20 scholarships are awarded, and every scholarship amounts to the registration fee at the City College which is 14,890 euros, whereas 50% of the funds are provided by the Ministry of Education and Science, and the remaining 50% by the City College. The President said:

Dear Fellows, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my great pleasure to award you this year with scholarships that bear the name of the late President Boris Trajkovski. Indeed, with his work, he left an indelible mark in the contemporary Macedonian history and legacy of a great leader and a noble man.

The significance of today’s ceremony lies in the fact that the scholarships are awarded to twenty selected students. The best twenty among the candidates who applied. Therefore, we expect from you to upgrade your knowledge and to prove that, to build quality, highly educated staff is always the most cost-effective investment.

Today, Macedonia needs leaders in the field of business-administration, management, marketing, finance.

No doubt that you will build yourself up to top entrepreneurs and managers with a successful career, but with responsibility to the society that has invested in you. Your future success will be a good sign for the success of the entire Macedonian society.

Dear Fellows,
I would like to stress that the "Boris Trajkovski" scholarships give you an excellent opportunity to upgrade your talent, knowledge, skills at a prestigious institution, the City College of Thessaloniki, the Sheffield University from the UK.

You are required to implement the acquired knowledge in your life and to put it in function of attaining your visions, bravely taking initiatives and working on the realization of your own ideas. Nelson Mandela says that education is exactly the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. Use it virtuously and unselfishly, building more beautiful and noble world.

Thank you.

Your Serene Highness, Prince Albert of Monaco,
Respected Mayer of Sochi, Mr. Pakhomov,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great pleasure to be here today, in Sochi, at the 6th international forum for Peace and Sport which, for the past five years has helped re-claim peace as the fundamental value of sport. I want to use this opportunity to congratulate the organizers of the Forum as well as our host - the city of Sochi which is becoming an Olympic and Paralympic center.

Distinguished attendees,
We live in times of changes and uncertainty. Time of challenges to both individuals and societies. Global economic and financial crisis, threats to peace and stability, natural hazards amplified by climate changes are leaving their mark on our lives. To cope with these challenges, we need each and every instrument, each and every opportunity to build a better place for our children.

We often think of sports as secondary activity that fills up our spare leisure time, that is, until we look at the principles of sport: Fair play, which means obeying both the letter and the spirit of the rules. Winning, after all, is only meaningful when competition is fair. Sport is about building character, striving for excellence and rising to the challenge. Sport is about respect for others. Winning with dignity and losing with grace. Sport should bring joy both on the field and on the benches. Sport promotes healthy lifestyle for every generation. Sport is inclusive and open to everyone. Sport is shared by everyone. It is these principles that give sport the potential to connect people and nations. Principles that make us re-think our position on the role of sport.

Sport has the potential to include each and every aspect of society, each and every person, and each and every child. It brings together man, women and children of different ethnic, religious and linguistic backgrounds. It includes and encourages the different, the people with disabilities. One recent positive example from my country, the Republic of Macedonia, is our champion Olivera Nakovska-Bikova. She who won the golden medal and established a world record in air pistol shooting at the 2012 London Paralympic Games. Her success gives hope to many other competitors.

Ladies and gentlemen,
In antiquity, the Olympic Games would temporarily stop all wars. Nowadays, in the 21st century, it is the armed conflicts that manage to interrupt and even stop the Games. We need to put an end to this negative tendency.

Sport is a tool for achieving solidarity among peoples and nations regardless of their differences. But, even more, sports have a significant role in peace building, preservation and affirmation of peace. We must never forget that the spirit of play and the spirit of togetherness are two sides of the same coin.

Sport is the means, peace is the ends. Sports promote reconciliation, especially in multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-lingual societies. It is an inclusive, not exclusive human activity. Sport implies participation, instead of isolation.

This certainly is the case with my country, the Republic of Macedonia. This year, we focused on building tolerance, togetherness and mutual respect in our multi-ethnic and multi-religious society through sport. This successful project included over 4000 children from six municipalities. I will never forget the image of children of various ethnic and religious backgrounds playing in the same teams, sharing the ball, winning not only sport matches, but, more importantly, a victory of tolerance over intolerance, a victory of togetherness over isolation, a victory of respect over disrespect. We are ready to share our positive experiences with other countries. I strongly believe that this is needed in our world.

Sport helps us focus on positive and healthy competition that brings out the best in us. Sports have the power to connect communities and nations with the same strength that connects the sport clubs and champions with their devoted fans.

Andre Agassi said: "When you change a child's future, you help change the world...for the better." We must do our best to change the world for our children.

Thank you.