Skopje, 12 July 2024 (MIA) - The Parliament held Friday a session to mark July 11-International Srebrenica Genocide Remembrance Day, with participants urging the Government to declare July 11 as the International Srebrenica Genocide Remembrance Day in accordance with the UN resolution.

Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi noted that the event is a reminder of the fragility and immeasurable value of peace, rule of law, coexistence, democracy, and human rights.

"Peace, rule of law, coexistence, democracy, and human rights are crucial values that must be fostered, maintained, and improved upon in all civilized and democratic societies, in the era of globalization where we are surrounded by disturbing news about global conflicts," Gashi said.

On behalf of all MPs and himself, Gashi expressed condolences to the Srebrenica victims, stressing that North Macedonia, along with several other countries in the international organization, voted in support of the UN General Assembly Resolution, condemning the denial of the genocide and declaring July 11 the International Srebrenica Genocide Remembrance Day.

Civil rights activist Mersiha Smailovikj expressed her gratitude that this day was discussed in Parliament, adding this proves that the Parliament Speaker and the country are good friends to the Bosniak community. This, she said, is proof that Macedonia is not denying the genocide.

Referring to the recent UN General Assembly Resolution, she stated that declaring July 11 International Srebrenica Genocide Remembrance Day is an important step.

"This will focus global awareness and attention to the tragedy, which is critical for marking historical events and preserving the memory of the victims and their families," Smailovikj said.

She believes that denial of the genocide must be condemned and called on several proven facts to be included in the education system and programs, but also to condemn the glorification of convicted war criminals. ssh/ik/