The President of the Republic of Macedonia Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, today awarded John Bitove with the Order “September 8” for exceptional dedication and commitment in support of the progress of the Republic of Macedonia and its affirmation worldwide as an independent and democratic state, as well as for contribution in developing and strengthening of the relations and cooperation with friendly Canada.

The address of the President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov:

Distinguished Mr. Bitove,
Esteemed Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Dear Friends,

These are the days when we celebrate the 20th anniversary of independence of our homeland, days when we thank God, our committed patriots, and generations of dedicated compatriots all over the world.

Throughout the past 20 years, the Macedonian experience showed that, regardless of how small territorially a country is, it is as strong as its tendency is towards the common future of all its children, both domestically and abroad. Whether they live in the fatherland or are part of the Diaspora, Macedonian patriots have always fought and strived for the freedom of this country, just as today, with unhidden enthusiasm, promote the truth about Macedonia, the Macedonians and what is Macedonian. Therefore, I believe that the success of the Republic of Macedonia is largely due to the dedication of the successful Macedonians worldwide.

The independence of the Republic of Macedonia was not only an expression of the will of its citizens, but also attainment of the yearning of the Macedonians from all over the world, who for decades were promoters and ambassadors of Macedonia's desire for independence in the countries where they lived. On September 8, 1991, independent Macedonia finally created conditions for spiritual liberation and unification of the Macedonians from all meridians.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today Mr. John Bitove is with us, the man who, though far from his native hearth, always carries Macedonia in his heart and his thoughts.

Convinced that nobody can take away “what we are most proud of - our own independent country with the freedoms that have been earned and the name that has been chosen by the Macedonians,” You, Mr. Bitove, for two decades, have been working diligently to support the development and progress of the Republic of Macedonia as an independent, sovereign and democratic state, as well as for its international recognition, especially in the relations with friendly Canada.

With your sincere support for Macedonia, by fostering the Macedonian name and identity, our traditions and customs, our culture, you give an example that should be followed by this and the coming generations of Macedonians from the Diaspora.

You have demonstrated how important it is the Macedonians to actively participate in the social, economic, cultural and political life in the countries where they live in order to increase the impact of the Macedonian Diaspora, thus promoting the Macedonian values. Your engagements speak of the importance of expanding the circle of Macedonian friends and creating lobby groups that will promote the truth of our country and will assist in achieving the vision of European and Euro-Atlantic Macedonia.

Indeed, availing myself of this solemn occasion, I want to stress that your contributions are not limited only to the field of promoting the truth about Macedonia, the efforts to defend the human, individual rights of the Macedonians to preserve their name, identity, language and culture. On the contrary. As a successful Canadian-Macedonian businessman, you constantly encourage compliance with the market economy laws, the rule of law and personal responsibility, but also fight against corruption and developing managerial and entrepreneurial spirit in the Macedonian economy. As a philanthropist, you are developing the sense of social responsibility.

Esteemed Excellencies,

My vision for Macedonia is a country of diligent, ambitious and successful people, a country open to foreign investment, a country of advanced technologies, entrepreneurship and innovation. Country where the economic growth and success are based on personal responsibility, professionalism and dedication.

Mr. Bitove, I would like to assure you that on our path, you, your family, as well as all successful and dedicated expatriates around the world, for us are a source of everlasting inspiration.

For all your help, support and tireless efforts, you are meritoriously on the list of proven and deserving sons of Macedonia. Therefore, as a token of our deep appreciation and gratitude to you personally and to your family, I have this great honor and pleasure to award you with the Order “September 8”.

Thank you.