Ladies and Gentlemen,

It gives me great honor and pleasure to address you on the occasion of awarding the Order of Merits for Macedonia to our music diva Esma Redzepova - Teodosievska. Macedonia is a country with rich history, culture and arts. A country in which artistic virtuosos, humanists and philanthropists are born. All valuable human and artistic qualities are synthesized in Esma. It is a pleasure to be a contemporary and fellow citizen of Esma - the star of the Parisian Olympia, whose concerts throughout the world are sold in advance. Esma lives in our neighborhood; she is modest and dignified, always ready to help all those who need support and assistance. With her authenticity, originality and perfect vocal performance, Esma promotes Macedonian and Roma music in the world, thus emerging in outstanding international musical name.

On this day, we have the opportunity, on behalf of all citizens of the Republic of Macedonia, by awarding the Order of Merits for Macedonia, to express our wholehearted gratitude for her contribution and achievements in promoting our country. To award her with another deserved recognition for her musical achievements and her humanitarian activities. Achievements admired by the entire world, a fact proven by the numerous recognitions, awards and successes, but above all the pleasure and smiles of those who enjoyed Esma’s voice, or felt her motherly embraces.

Dear all,

Today's celebration takes place just two days before the International Roma Day, April 8th. This day is proudly celebrated in the Republic of Macedonia. Indeed, the Roma community is inseparable part of the Macedonian society and it is not by accident that in our country there is a municipality where the Roma language is in official use.

Besides other engagements, Esma is undoubtedly one of the leading figures in the arrangements for improving the social and economic situation of Roma population. Certainly her care for the community, her philanthropic and humanitarian mission does not recognize nationality, religion, sex ... Love is equally needed by everyone and everywhere and should be granted unconditionally, as this was once done by the best known citizen of Skopje - Mother Teresa.

Esma is a perfect example that there are no barriers when it comes to talent, will and persistence. For more than fifty years Esma has been conquering the scenes and the hearts of the audience worldwide, spreading the messages from one small country by size, but large in spirit.

At the end, allow me to wish Esma further personal and professional success and, of course, to continue, with the energy of her music and the warmth of her voice, to enrich the world, granting and spreading unconditional love.