Skopje, 2 August 2023 (MIA) - For all of us, Ilinden represents the foundation of our identity, the struggle for statehood. A day for which many of our brothers and sisters laid down their lives in the past, so that we could live in freedom today in the independent state of Macedonia, VMRO-DPMNE leader Hristijan Mickoski said Wednesday at Mechkin Kamen in Krushevo, where August 2, the Day of the Republic - Ilinden was observed. 

According to him, Ilinden is a guide as to how we should live and how we should protect our country. "And Mechkin Kamen, it resonates even today, it has a great and strong meaning even today, because in an unequal battle, Pitu Guli's detachment was outnumbered but still continued to fight and laid down their lives, gave sacrifice for the freedom that we live in today," said Mickoski.  

He pointed out that today the Macedonian people show defiance and know what they are fighting for, for their identity, their country and a dignified future.

"Today you will hear many statements from the representatives of the government, but while they are making those statements in front of the media, you should know that under the table they are making deals to further sell off the Macedonian substrate and the Macedonian identity for a day more in power and a day more to rob Macedonia," Mickoski said. 

The VMRO-DPMNE leader stressed that the message of the unity of the Macedonian people is above all else. "That is the message that we are sending here today, at Mechkin Kamen, because when the Macedonian people, when the citizens in Macedonia are united, not even such type of politicians can have any effect and they cannot do anything. Only united we will reach the desired goal, which is a prosperous Macedonia for all citizens, a developed, European country," Mickoski said. 

 Photo: VMRO-DPMNE