Skopje, 24 April 2024 (MIA) - The result is not the one we expected, the difference will be about 130,000 votes. We expected a smaller margin but tomorrow is a new day, and as of tomorrow we will meet with citizens again and start from zero, said SDSM presidential candidate Stevo Pendarovski after the first round of the presidential elections late on Wednesday.

"We are starting from zero. As was the case in the past 20 days, my task will be to promote the concept I deeply believe in - an integrated state, without divisions. I encourage the citizens who did not go out in the first round to vote in the runoff. I expect a larger turnout and an even bigger number recognizing the concept of a democratic, prosperous state, equal with all other nations," said Pendarovski.

Pendarovski added he would not seek for any agreement with other entities over a so-called mechanical transfer of votes.

"I do not believe in this concept. I have never seen citizens as an amorphous mass that will be told to transfer its votes. I will reject any attempt to offer citizens' votes," said Pendarovski.

The SDSM candidate said he would present his concept and the country's future development before citizens.

"We will not give up, the citizens' response was great, I expect all ethnic communities and social structures to support my concept," added Pendarovski.

Photo: MIA