The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, as part of the celebration of the 20th anniversary of taking over of the watch tower “Ramna Niva” from the former JNA, by the territorial defence squad “Kozjak” from Kriva Palanka, today addressed the Gala academy held on that occasion:

Distinguished Members of the Organization of reserve military officers of the Republic of Macedonia, esteemed guests, dear friends,

Exactly 20 years ago, the composition of reserve military officers took the first watch tower from the JNA, the first point that meant real independence of the Republic of Macedonia. It was in Ramna Niva where the independence of our homeland Macedonia was born. Here is the germ of the Army of the Republic of Macedonia. At this point, the Macedonian armed forces began to keep their homeland Macedonia.

Exactly with this, for us, historical event, we have demonstrated that we have capacity not only to declare independence, but to keep it as something sacred, to fulfill the covenant of Ilinden fighters, the veterans of the Liberation War. We have demonstrated that we can endure as a country in the tumultuous period of crisis and military conflicts that emerged in the former Yugoslav federation.

Distinguished Guests,
This year the Macedonian Army celebrates its 20th jubilee. I am especially proud that it is with you, with the members of reserve military officers of the Republic of Macedonia that we start celebrating this important anniversary. As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I would like to pay special tribute and respect for your support in key moments for Macedonia. And believe me, this is justified. Your members first took over the defence of the border of our homeland. I am confident that you will do the same whenever Macedonia needs that from you.

I know you always answer the call of the homeland, regardless of circumstances and dangers. I know that your commitment does not end in the moment when you take off your uniform. The organization of reserve military officers of the Republic of Macedonia was established 60 years ago and is widespread throughout the country. You are the potential that we can and we must rely at any time.

I would like to assure you that in the course of this year we will make an overall analysis of the needs and the necessity of the reserve officers for the purpose of defending the Republic of Macedonia. I strongly believe that the reserve officers should be beside the active component, as one of the pillars supporting the defence of the Republic of Macedonia. Therefore, it should take the appropriate place in the defence sector.

What you, as reserve military officers have started two decades ago, the Army of the Republic of Macedonia along with some other segments of the defence and security took it over and continued. You know that today Macedonia has fulfilled all the obligations and criteria for NATO membership. However, regardless the final decision of the Summit in Chicago, we will continue with the reforms in all sectors, primarily we will do that for ourselves. Because we began similarly 20 years ago here, at Ramna Niva, faithfully, committed and unswervingly.

Dear members of the organization of military reserve officers,
At the end, congratulating you once again the 60th anniversary and the 20th anniversary of taking over of the first watch tower, I want to thank you for your professionalism in carrying out the responsible tasks, but above all, for your patriotism, your solidarity and loyalty to the homeland and to each other.

Thank you.