President Gjorge Ivanov sent Friday New Year's greetings to Macedonian citizens, saying this is a holiday that has remained a symbol of goodness and hope, wishing peace, love and unity.

"The New Year is a moment of optimism, new energy and new strength. A moment of solidarity and unity. A moment of hope that we will do what we have not managed or were unable to achieve. Another year is behind us. A year which everyone can assess by themselves. Each individual success contributes to the common good. We contribute for the country as a whole, but also for the dignity of all Macedonian citizens", says Ivanov.

He says the incoming year marks the 20th anniversary from Macedonia's independence.

"These are 20 years filled with faith and hope in our success, security and prosperity. Although we have faced obstacles on this road, we have never lost sight of the ultimate goal. Guided by the principles we have nurtured for centuries - the wish for freedom and human dignity, good neighborly relations and diligence, we are building and enhancing our common home. What remains is Macedonia's accession in the Euro-Atlantic family of nations. I am convinced we will achieve this objective. However, its achievement requires greater unity, self-confidence and self-respect", stresses President Ivanov.

He adds that next year marks the 10th anniversary of the Ohrid Framework Agreement, which has promoted the eternal tradition of respecting diversity, tolerance and respect among citizens of diverse ethnic and religious communities, since coexistence is the country's biggest treasure.

"I know that the biggest pain our citizens cope with is poverty and unemployment. These are problems we have fought with for a long time. As the economic crisis is coming to an end, we must double our efforts in finding new opportunities for jobs, new skills and new markets. Let's equip the citizens, especially the youth, with knowledge and skills to fight for a better future", says Ivanov.

While we celebrate the New Year with our families and friends, he says, let us think of our peacekeepers in Afghanistan, Bosnia&Herzegovina and Lebanon.

"Macedonia is aware of the threats and trauma of present times. We should know that peace is the prerequisite for each coming good. This is the reason why we accept the commitment, like every responsible member of the international community. However, our common duty depends from the personal sacrifice by a group of our men and women to whom we should be truly grateful", states Ivanov.

According to him, the incoming year will be one of many challenges and serious efforts.

"The great challenges will bring out the best from us. We owe this to ourselves, our ancestors and future generations", stresses Ivanov.

"Let your homes be filled with joy and happiness, whereas your hearts with peace and warmth, not only in the New Year's Eve, but throughout your life", underlines President Gjorge Ivanov in the New Year's greeting.