Skopje, 21 May 2025 (MIA) – Minister of Culture and Tourism Zoran Ljutkov addressed on Wednesday the third Cultural Diplomacy Forum, which is taking place in the Museum of Macedonian Struggle in Skopje under the patronage of the former Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov.

Minister Ljutkov delivered welcome remarks during the forum’s fourth session, titled “Art as a Tool for Diplomacy: Building Bridges Across Culture/Empowering Creative Industries for Sustainable Growth and International Dialogue.”

Speakers of the debate also included Abdulaziz Othman Altwaijri, Director General of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO); Benedetto Zacchiroli, President of the European Coalition of Cities Against Racism (ECCAR); Peng Guan, Founder of the International Asian Cultural Society and Melpomeni Korneti, Deputy Minister of Culture of North Macedonia 2002-06, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism said in a press release.

In his speech, Minister Ljutkov noted that in today’s world, where politics is increasingly constrained, and global crises reshape economic interests, culture stands as quite but unifying force.

“Cultural diplomacy is the most refined form of international communication – a bridge over differences that fosters understanding and lasting friendship. It speaks not through agreements, but through music, art, poetry, and meaningful cultural gestures that touch the soul,” he said.

He stressed that Macedonian culture is rich both in historical legacy and its vibrant modern expression.

“Cultural diplomacy is a mutual and delicate exchange where authenticity is not lost, it becomes a bridge to greater understanding. It is not about self-promotion, but about sharing the core of a nation’s identity, creativity, and vision,” Ljutkov said.

Ljutkov recalled that over the years, Macedonia has left a recognizable cultural mark on the international stage through close cooperation with UNESCO, the Council of Europe, and other relevant organizations such as the Francophonie, the Forum of Slavic Cultures, and the Alliance of Civilizations.

“From the Venice Biennale, to international book fairs in Frankfurt, Paris, and Leipzig, and performances by the National Opera, National Philharmonic, theatres, and folk song and dance ensembles – our culture speaks the languages of art that are understood around the world. Through events such as the Days of Macedonian Culture in prominent European centres, and the ongoing celebration of ‘Macedonia in Honour of St. Cyril’, our country positions itself as an active participant in shaping Europe’s cultural future,” he underlined.

Ljutkov urged that the cultural diplomacy should not be treated as a marginal concept, but as a central component of our foreign policy.

“Cultural diplomacy is not a monologue. It is a dialogue between identities. When conducted with sincerity and respect, it not only builds bridges – it breaks down the walls of ignorance and stereotypes. That is why cultural diplomacy must not remain on the margins, but become a core pillar of our international relations,” Ljutkov emphasized.

Photo: Ministry of Culture and Tourism