Skopje, 2 August 2023 (MIA) - Today, on our brightest holiday, Ilinden, we remember the generations that fought for our two republics – the Krushevo Republic in 1903 and ASNOM in 1944. Driven by progressive ideas of political freedom and social justice, young people were the real drivers of both Ilindens. The youth were the first to rise up in the fight against fascism and became the most combative core of the people's liberation army. ASNOM itself was, above all, a meeting of young people. Today we have a free Macedonian state, thanks to the young people from the Ilinden and anti-fascist generation, President Stevo Pendarovski said in a message of congratulations on Aug. 2 - Ilinden.

Pendarovski notes that young people are key to any kind of social transformation, from popular uprisings and revolutions, to creating policies and implementing reforms.

"But, in order to motivate young people to stay and get involved in building a European Macedonia, we must use European reforms to build our country as a just and progressive republic in which Macedonian citizens will have a decent life, good education, quality healthcare, efficient justice system that will eradicate crime, corruption and nepotism. It is European integration that will help us achieve this vital national interest. Therefore, we must overcome our differences without delay, unite around immediate start of negotiations and stop wasting young people's time. Because if we miss this chance, we will lose a vital part of the Macedonian society," reads Pendarovski's message. 

It is difficult to acquire a free state, the President adds, but it is even more difficult to build and maintain a free and just society. 

"While the former is the work of one generation, the latter becomes the responsibility of all subsequent generations. Therefore, let's unite for the future of young people and build a European, not an emigrant, Macedonian state together," says President Pendarovski.