Skopje, 14 June 2023 (MIA) - We should not debate whether the Macedonian language exists or not. We speak it, it is taught in our universities, business contracts are written in Macedonian, British Ambassador Matthew Lawson told Wednesday's event celebrating the birthday of King Charles III in Skopje.

On the occasion of 30 years of partnership and diplomatic relations between the two countries, the Ambassador said the United Kingdom will always support North Macedonia as an equal partner.

"We will always support North Macedonia as an equal partner in trade, investments, in NATO, OSCE, the United Nations. Our partnership extends to your culture, language and history. We are proud of our history and our language in the UK, especially this year with the coronation of our new King, and we understand and respect that you too are proud of your language and your history," Lawson added. 

The UK Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Lord Stuart Peach, told the event held at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Skopje they are proud that North Macedonia also stands with Ukraine, not only because it is a significant bilateral donor, but also because it contributes to wider European security through NATO. 

"We stand together with Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression because we believe in democracy and the rule-based international system. We are proud that North Macedonia also stands with Ukraine, not only by being a significant bilateral donor, but also by contributing to wider European security through NATO," said Peach, adding that the "Swift Response 22" military exercise that took place last year clearly showed such commitment.

He noted that North Macedonia plays a leading role at international level, not only through NATO.

"North Macedonia chairs the OSCE at a time when Russia is trying to undermine the organization's consensus-based approach. I welcome this leadership and defense of the basic principles of the OSCE - the absence of the use of force, respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms," Peach said. 

He stressed that political commitment to reforms is key and the United Kingdom is working together with North Macedonia in supporting institutions, civil society, free media, while promoting respect for human rights including gender equality.

"Our Chevening Programme has given over 200 citizens the chance to study at prestigious British universities. A stable investment environment and labor market underpin stability. North Macedonia is the UK's largest trading partner in the Western Balkans, with trade totaling £2.3 billion in 2022 with significant investment from British companies such as Johnson Matthey, Sopro and Central Asia Metals," said Peach. 

He added that a UK/North Macedonia business chamber will be opened soon, which will allow others to share the fruits of this partnership.

"We will continue to stand together with all the citizens of North Macedonia who work on ensuring a stable future in the heart of the Euro-Atlantic community. We will support you in building robust institutions to support this goal, in developing the economy and creating jobs to ensure a brighter future for the next generation," Peach said.