Skopje, 8 September 2026 (MIA) - On 8 September 1991, the citizens of Macedonia reaffirmed their aspiration for a sovereign and independent state through a referendum, a milestone that marked the beginning of the process of establishing national institutions, diplomatic offices, a security system, and economic policies.

Over the past 35 years, the country has gone through turbulent times filled with political turnarounds, security challenges, difficult compromises, and a struggle for international affirmation. From the peaceful secession from former Yugoslavia and the country's UN accession, through the 2001 conflict, the Prespa Agreement, and the NATO membership, the history of the independent state is one of institution building, maintaining stability, and realization of strategic goals.

President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova will lay flowers at the graves of Macedonia's first President Kiro Gligorov, late President Boris Trajkovski and the first Prime Minister Nikola Kljusev. Delegations of the Parliament, the Government, the Army, religious communities, institutions, diplomatic corps and political parties will also pay their respects.

President Siljanovska Davkova will also present the September 8 Order to Jordan Plevnesh and Rade Siljan and posthumously to Xhevat Gega, Meto Jovanovski and Gligor Chemerski.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski is set to address an Independence Day event at the Government plateau at 2 pm.

The National Archaeological Museum is hosting an event "35 Years - 35 Items - 35 Stories" that depicts the country's long-standing rich cultural and historic heritage.

A concert of world-renowned producer and DJ David Guetta will take place at the Skopje-based national arena "Toshe Proeski", as part of his Monolith Stadium Show tour.

MIA file photo