The President of the Republic of North Macedonia, Stevo Pendarovski, on the occasion of May 23, the National Day of the Vlachs, sent a congratulation message to all members of the Vlach community in the Republic of North Macedonia.
Dear fellow citizens,
It is a special honor for me to congratulate you May 23, the National Day of the Vlachs. On this day in 1905, Sultan Abdul Hamid II issued a decree recognizing the national rights of the Vlachs within the Ottoman Empire, enabling the opening of schools in Vlach language as an important step towards preserving their ethnic and cultural identity. After 115 years, the members of the Vlach community, exactly in the Republic of North Macedonia, exercise the right to civic and political organization, enjoying all rights as the other ethnic communities, thus strengthening their ethnic, linguistic and cultural identity. Our country can rightly be proud of the contribution of the members of the Vlach community in the social flows and in all segments of everyday life. Our multiethnic and multicultural society is not just the result of legal provisions, standards and practices. It is a reflection of the mutual understanding, unity and respect for all our citizens.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Like the rest of the world, our common homeland, the Republic of North Macedonia, is facing the Covid-19 pandemic, which mercilessly takes human lives and leaves profound health, financial and social consequences. As in all historical turmoil, we shall now remain united, in solidarity and responsible in order to protect ourselves, our loved ones and the whole community. I have no doubt that with firm will, dedication, discipline and caution we will soon emerge victorious over the invisible enemy that does not distinguish between racial, ethnic, religious, gender, ideological or any other affiliation.
Congratulations on May 23, the Vlach National Day.
Stevo Pendarovski
President of the Republic of North Macedonia
