Boris TRAJKO VSKI

President of the Republic of Macedonia

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Members of the Academy,

Professors and guests,

The Republic of Macedonia pertains geographically, historically and culturally to the Balkans. For centuries the Macedonian people has participated in the rich and colourful cultural exchange in this region. At the same time it has gone through many historical challenges and conflicts. In their permanent strive for historic survival, the Macedonians have indentified the priceless value of peace and freedom. They are sacred to this nation.

We have entered the new millennium with hopes for better future, welfare and prosperity for the world, but unfortunately the Balkans are again facing dark shadows from the past. The historical frustrations of intolerance and exclusion generate militant ideas and create new crises.

The current events in the Republic of Macedonia show that we are still far from the final end of certain disputes and conflicts in the region. They are a threat also to the global peace since the historic rivalries have turned the Balkans into the largest ammunition arsenal in the world.

The new challenges and dangers spreading throughout the region, threatening the peace both in the Balkans and throughout the world require a joint action, cooperation and solidarity. We all need new and original solutions on our way towards the European home of the 21 St century.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

In this context I would like to welcome this Conference The Balkans in the New Millennium. I sincerely hope that this gathering of eminent representatives of institutions and international organizations from the economic, scientific and cultural area will give a special scientific contribution to the stabilization of the region. We all feel the need to establish new bridges between different cultures and societies, which are naturally meant to live together, I believe in the immense power of science to shape or transform the world making it a perfect place or a toy in the hands of man.

I believe in scientific and artistic values, that have marked the last century, but I also believe in the national and authentic culture, which has its uniqueness and originality. This culture as a tradition and creation in the national and ethnic spirit pursues its existence. The national cultural trends cannot be stopped or destroyed despite the influences. They continue to be nourished by future generations.

So today, let us turn a new corner and a new leaf. Let us put behind us that which used to tear us apart and renew that which brings us together in a joint Balkan future. Let us take over all historical burdens and turn then into a new integrating energy on our way towards civilizing development and prosperity. This is the only way to justify our own responsibility before the generations to come.

Thank you.