Skopje, 2 August 2024 (MIA) - Ilinden is the seed of the vision, togetherness, courage, a reminder of the common values of unity, which we celebrate. In these 30 years we learned that the past should be remembered, while we should work for the future. Our unity is our greatest treasure, and precisely through this unity can we achieve greatness. Let’s rise above the situation and find factors of unity instead of division, Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi said Friday in his speech on August 2, Republic Day – Ilinden.

According to Gashi, the commitment of Ilinden persists even today. It is, he stressed, a commitment to the country’s progress, prosperity for the citizens, and a better future for the next generations. “The ideas that should unite us today are patriotism and the common goal for a better country,” he said.

“Patriotism is a sincere commitment to our country and our citizens. Patriotism is an investment in the country through honest work and good decisions. Ilinden isn’t limited since it belongs to us all, starting from 1903, through to 1944 and all of us who are working towards a European Macedonia today. Multiethnic, multicultural and multifunctional – our country is a unique tapestry embroidered by diversity. That diversity is the foundation upon which our country is developing and progressing today. This is in the spirit of the values that were promoted in the Krushevo Republic, as well as the independent Macedonia of ASNOM,” Gashi said in his speech in front of the building of Parliament.

The Speaker of Parliament highlighted the need to focus on reforms and progress in education, healthcare, judiciary, digitization and issues that impact the quality of the everyday lives of citizens.

“NATO membership is the most successful result. Bearing in mind the reputation we enjoy as an equal member of the Alliance, our responsibility to defense will grow in the coming period, especially at a time of conflicts not only in Europe, but also in other parts of the world. All NATO members are equally tasked with setting a defense budget of over 2 percent of GDP. Investment in the modernization of the Army, cooperation with the allies and investment in restoring and maintaining global peace – these are steps that won’t be simple, but thanks to the excellent readiness of our defense forces and the assistance from the state, they are achievable,” Gashi added.

Gashi also touched upon the country’s path to the European Union.

“Despite the numerous challenges, I am convinced that we will find a solution, strength, and willingness on that path as well to overcome them and become a member of the European Union sooner. We must focus on our aspirations for the future. Our membership within the EU is not only a political goal, but also a commitment to a set of values and principles that will advance our country. The path to EU membership is a path to economic prosperity, social progress and stronger democracy. It is a path that requires commitment, hard work and collective responsibility,” Gashi said.

Gashi said alongside the MPs, Parliament is ready to restore the trust in law and justice as pillars of stability and harmony in society. 

“No one has a right to different or better conditions to build their careers or gain material wealth at the expense of others. We will work on drafting laws that will revitalize the economy and bring foreign investments in all cities equally, while also encouraging entrepreneurship and innovations among our youth. Regarding the youth, we will especially focus on laws in the field of education, because it is precisely quality education that is the key to long-term development, progress and global competitiveness of a state. We won’t be able to fulfill these goals easily if we don’t keep pace with modern technologies and digitization. We will be tirelessly committed to following the latest trends in Europe and the world,” Gashi said. 

According to the Speaker, the privilege of living in a prosperous and stable country is not a given right, but a result of serious and committed implementation of reforms in all areas of society and branches of state governance. 

“The basis of these reforms is a return to the essential values – family values, mutual respect, coexistence. Only through healthy foundations can a healthy and advanced country be built. Let’s follow in the footsteps of the greats who created the country in which we live today, such as Metodija Andonov Chento and Nexhat Agolli, and leave a mark that our ancestors will be proud of and will serve as an example for the future generations,” Gashi said, adding that it is time to affirm the country’s commitment to unity, solidarity and progress.

Photo: MIA