I believe that through the activities within the frameworks of the Roma Decade , further progress will be made with the condition of the Roma population in housing, health, employment and education as key features in everyday life, stated President Ivanov.

Skopje, 7 April 2011 – On behalf of marking the International Roma Day – 8th April, the president of Republic of Macedonia, Gorge Ivanov organized today a reception for representatives of the Roma community – politicians, artists, sport players, activists.

President Ivanov in his address emphasized the need for increased activity for complete integration of the Roma population in the Macedonian and the European society as well and pointed out that Macedonia is a leader in enabling and respect of minority rights of Roma, as equal citizens of the country.

– The situation with the Roma community in Macedonia and the level of rights it enjoys are an example for the entire world. In our country Roma have the opportunity to be educated in their mother tongue, to vote for their parties and candidates and to be represented in all state institutions. In this country there is a Roma municipality with its own Roma mayor and where Roma language is in official use, stated Ivanov in his greeting speech.

Macedonia this year took over the presidency of the Decade for Roma inclusion, an initiative where 12 countries are involved.

– I believe that through the activities within the frameworks of the Roma Decade, further progress will be made with the condition of the Roma population in housing, health, employment and education as key features in everyday life, stated Ivanov.

On 8th April the Roma culture and identity are being celebrated and efforts are being made for raising of public awareness about the problems and challenges with which Roma face in all countries as the largest ethnic minority in Europe. ев/16:13

 

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