Skopje, 9 September 2026 (MIA) -- The Macedonian Embassy in Croatia and the Macedonian Cultural and Information Center in Zagreb celebrated the 35th anniversary of Macedonian independence with an event Tuesday at the Croatian State Archives in Zagreb.

Attendees included state officials, diplomats, religious representatives as well as members of the Macedonian community in Croatia.

In their speeches at the event, Macedonian Ambassador to Croatia Dragan Gjurchevski, Macedonian Cultural and Information Center director Mimi Gjorgoska Ilievska and Macedonian State Archives director Dimitar Bogeski said Sept. 8 was more than a national holiday, highlighting it as a symbol of statehood, dignity and national unity.

The event began with the Croatian and Macedonian national anthems, performed by the Pro Ars choir led by conductor Sasho Tatarchevski. The choir then performed pieces by Macedonian composers inspired by Macedonian history.

The choral performance was followed by the opening of an exhibition titled "Archival Documents: The Pillar of Macedonian Identity" by Branislav Svetozarevikj, Marina Gjorgievska and Nikica Tasevska.

"Archival documents preserve memory, music revives it, and culture turns it into a lasting bond between people and countries. The evening was also enriched with a tasting of Macedonian food and wine," organizers said.

The celebration was organized by the Macedonian Cultural and Information Center in Zagreb with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. mr/