Because of his sincere and deep humanism, artistic achievements and uniting energy, President Ivanov posthumously awarded the Order of Merits for Macedonia to Tose Proeski. At the ceremony organized at the Presidential residence, Tose's nephew, Kristijan Risteski received the Order.

- This Order is recognition of his real merits and an expression of our love and respect for the man who loved us all. With this act, Macedonia becomes formally committed to continue to cherish the memory of its great son to nurture his art and humanity, Ivanov said.

The President stressed that the Order is symbolic and modest, while the commitment to fostering good thoughts, intentions and deeds, is the real gift that we can give to Tose.

- Tose has been promoting the Republic of Macedonia and showed that Macedonia is brave and worthy, that we should believe, love, cherish and promote Macedonia with dignity. With our unselfish efforts, Tose Proeski, once again, made us proud of our past and decisive for our future, Ivanov said.

The ceremony of awarding the Order of Merits to Tose Proeski was attended by the former President Kiro Gligorov, Vice Prime Minister for European Affairs Vasko Naumovski, Minister of Culture Kanceska-Milevska, the Rector of Ss. Cyril and Methodius University of Skopje, Velimir Stojkovski, the Mayor of the municipality of Krushevo, members of Proeski family and representatives from the foundation “Tose Proeski”.