Distinguished Attendees,
Esteemed Excellencies,
Dear Friends,

Great is the honor and pleasure for me to greet you here, in the Republic of Macedonia. I wish those of you who are today for the first time in the country you represent so devotedly, warm and cordial welcome.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is not by coincidence that this evening we are gathered here at the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle for Statehood and Independence. This Museum not only celebrates Macedonian patriots and freedom fighters, but also numerous friends that Macedonia have had during its struggle for independence and statehood. Friends who have never been afraid to stand in support of Macedonia's aspiration for freedom. Friends who have helped us in moments of greatest temptations.

There are politicians and fighters, missionaries and philanthropists, writers and public figures among them. In the most difficult moments for us, they have been the voice of the voiceless, representatives of the unrecognized, advocates of the disadvantaged. They have been de facto honorary consuls of the idea of an independent Macedonia.

Since then, many things have changed for Macedonia. 22 years after the independence, the Republic of Macedonia has more friends than ever before. We have so far established diplomatic relations with 167 countries worldwide. Some of these relations have been established owing to the commitment of the dedicated and sincere friends of Macedonia. We have 69 honorary consuls in 37 countries in the world who consistently promote development of trade, economic, cultural and scientific relations. That development is, however, subject to changes that are profound and global in nature.

Drafted five decades ago, the 1963 Vienna Convention on Consular Relations is not fully compliant to the challenges and opportunities borne by the 21st century. Century marked with fundamental transformation of international relations. Century in which globalization and information revolution create new non-territorial, virtual communities. In the 21st century, public opinion has even greater influence on decision makers. Thus, the traditional, elitist and closed concept of diplomacy is being transformed.

We are witnessing that geo-politics is increasingly leaving room to geo-profit and geo-culture. Economic and cultural diplomacy are turning into more important links between states and peoples.

It is exactly in such conditions that modern diplomacy should function, which is dynamic, demanding and active, being present in the public, in the media and in the social life.

You, our valued, honorary consuls have a role in this regard. Your role today is more important than ever before, particularly in three areas.

First, the Republic of Macedonia's full integration into the European and Euro-Atlantic family of nations is still hindered due to an absurd and imposed dispute. We are grateful that you represent in your countries the truth about the Republic of Macedonia consistently.

Second, political cooperation without adequate economic cooperation is as unsowed seed - it exists without the opportunity to bring forth fruit. Therefore, we are grateful that you work on promotion of economic cooperation between the Republic of Macedonia and your respective countries.

Third, but not least, the Republic of Macedonia is competitive in the world because of the Macedonian culture, Macedonian art, sports. Hence, we are thankful that you promote so vigorously the Macedonian tradition and the Macedonian lifestyle, which are also our best export product.

I am confident that in the future you will continue to further build the friendship between the Republic of Macedonia and your countries.

Dear Friends,

The world is changing. But one thing is clear: No matter what, countries shall always promote trade, culture, shall afford help to its citizens abroad. The country shall always need honorary consuls. The Republic of Macedonia shall always need you as partners and supporters of our official diplomacy.

Thank you.