President Stevo Pendarovski, on the occasion of the celebration of November 22 – the Day of the Albanian Alphabet, sent a congratulation message to the members of the Albanian ethnic community in the Republic of North Macedonia.
The integral text of the congratulation message from President Pendarovski is below.
Dear fellow Albanians,
Let me cordially congratulate you on November 22, the Day of the Albanian Alphabet, at the same time wishing you, above all, good health and well-being.
On November 22, 112 years ago, prominent Albanian intellectuals from all over the Balkans gathered in Bitola to unify the Albanian alphabet. Exactly this act is the basis for codification of the Albanian literary language and a milestone for the development of the Albanian culture and spirituality, a pillar of national self-identification. We are proud that the Day of the Albanian Alphabet has been a national holiday for 14 years, which makes proud not only the Albanians, but also all the citizens of our homeland.
Dear fellow citizens,
Language and culture are the foundations of every nation and their negation means an attempt to destroy nationality. In the 21st century, such attempts cannot find fertile ground and will be doomed to failure.
I would like to take this opportunity, at a time when we are in a state of crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, to appeal once again to remain united, responsible, in solidarity and to protect ourselves, our loved ones and the whole community.
Happy November 22, the Day of the Albanian Alphabet.
Stevo Pendarovski
