Photo: Zoran Zaev (left) and Zijad Bećirović
PRESS RELEASE
IFIMES director Bećirović guest of SDSM president Zaev
LJUBLJANA / SKOPJE, October 1, 2015 - Director of the International Institute for Middle-East and Balkan Studies (IFIMES) Zijad Bećirović, was a guest of Zoran Zaev, President of the Social Democratic Alliance of Macedonia (SDSM), the largest opposition party, and leader of opposition in the Republic of Macedonia.
Director Bećirović familiarized his host with the work of the Institute in the Balkan region, with particular emphasis on Macedonia in which IFIMES is strengthening its presence and operations. This is particularly important due to the recent disclosure of events in Macedonia, the project "The Truth about Macedonia" and upcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled for 24 April 2016.
The main topic of discussion was the current situation in Macedonia, and the process of democratization of the country.
SDSM President Zaev spoke about the challenges facing the country, and noted that Macedonia will be an open, democratic society that caters equally to all citizens after the parliamentary elections in April 2016.
"We sent a message of what happened in Macedonia and that it will never happen again. Our goal is to normalize the country to restore lost trust in institutions, democracy, freedom, justice, human rights, and to open the door for the country's economic development. We will build an open, democratic society for all, "said Zaev.
Director of the International Institute IFIMES Bećirović said that Macedonia is need of democratic process and restoration of the rule of law, similar to the process in the Republic of Croatia which can ensure a peaceful takeover after the elections.
"Following the example of Croatia, Macedonia urgently needs a process of "de-Sanaderization "said Bećirović.
SDSM President Zaev accepted an invitation to officially visit the International Institute IFIMES at the end of this month, giving a lecture at the Institute on the current developments in Macedonia in the light of the upcoming early parliamentary elections.
Ljubljana/Skopje, October 1, 2015
