Dear Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me first congratulate the great jubilee - 50 years since the establishment of "Poraka" as a specialized civil, national and non-profit organization representing the rights and interests of people with intellectual disabilities in the Republic of Macedonia. Your activism through twenty local clubs throughout the Republic of Macedonia has a crucial role in supporting people with intellectual disabilities. At the same time, I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to be part of this celebration and personally to address you. I am especially honored today that I am among the people who, with their faith, perseverance, courage, are an example and an inspiration to all of us. I assure you that in me, as President of the Republic of Macedonia, you have a loyal friend and dedicated supporter.

Dear All,

On this occasion, I would like to emphasize very clearly that we all, as representatives of institutions and as individuals, must do everything to break down the barriers for the people with intellectual disabilities. Their involvement in the social processes is not only their right and benefit, it is our institutional and moral obligation. We must break down the barriers and conquer prejudices and stereotypes, working tirelessly on raising public awareness. In this context, all previous experiences, research undertaken, positive practices of "Poraka", and all the other organizations, are an outstanding basis for full implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. I hereby remind you that the Convention was ratified by the Macedonian Parliament less than two years ago. In the context of the implementation of the Convention, we certainly need to work on improving the legal opportunities and policies for people with intellectual disabilities, and to take specific actions, each institution within its jurisdiction. Civil society is, however, with its initiative and creativity, a key factor in this process, whereas the close cooperation with the NGOs is inevitable. The cooperation between the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy and "Poraka", through various activities and projects, is a good example of cooperation in the interest of the target group. Coordination and professional approach, as well as experiences at European and global level are also of particular importance. Daycare centers are undoubtedly a key factor in improving the conditions for the people with intellectual disabilities. In this context, we certainly need to work on continuous improvement of living conditions in the existing institutions for people with intellectual disabilities, although the aim remains to target a greater deinstitutionalization of these persons and their inclusion in alternative services in their respective places of residence. Part of the above mentioned is actually part of the objectives and principles of "Poraka".

At the end, let me once again greet you and wish you many more anniversaries and many successes in the programs and projects implemented by this organization.

Thank you.