Macedonia Daily.org: December 2007

Saturday, December 29, 2007

GOODBYE 2007, WELCOME 2008

Macedonia Daily

Another year has gone by, the time goes so fast, last christmas seems like a month ago. 2007 was a wonderfull year, many things happened, especially for Macedonia. Also of course MD celebrated it first birthday. Of course we will continue like this and even better in the new year 2008 and hopefully many more years to come.

We would like to thank you again, for supporting and visiting our site, for the positive comments but also the negative comments and we will ask you to keep visiting the site and to be involved in the Macedonia Daily Spotters Network.

For now we would like to wish you a very happy new year and all the best wishes for 2008! We will be back on Wednesday and hopefully you will too!

Yours Sincerely,

Macedonia Daily

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 3:33 pm | Permalink | Comments

Friday, December 28, 2007

MACEDONIAN SHIELDS FROM PELAGONIA

Culture.

“Antique Macedonian Shields from Pelagonija” is the title of the publication by archaeologist Dusko Temelkoski, which was promoted in Prilep library “Borka Taleski” on Wednesday.
The publication presents parts of shields found last year at site Bonce, dating 22 centuries ago, from the period after Alexander, in the time of the antique Macedonian king Demetrij.

“The findings on the shields are presented not only in a professional, but also in a more popular way, so that the story about the antique shields is accessible to the wider readers’ public, including information on site Bonce and King Demetrij”, said Temelkoski. French historian Pierre Giuel worked with Temelkoski on the book. They have already presented the findings in France, Croatia, Germany.

Polish archaeologist and professor at the Gdansk University Nick Sekunda is the book reviewer, emphasizing the exceptional importance of the findings. Parts of the shields date from the antique period, pointing to the famous Macedonian army called phalanx. The shield parts are currently conserved in the Ohrid Bureau and Museum, and one of them could be reconstructed and presented to the public next autumn at the earliest.

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

NATO PROMISE BRINGS OPTIMISM

National.

The promise of NATO membership should soothe troubled brows in Macedonia despite what its president described as a wasted year in 2007, BBC said in today's analysis.

"2008 is set to be a dramatic year in the Balkans, though probably not as tragic as some prophesy," BBC said.

Macedonia, Albania and Croatia have all worked hard on securing their invitations to join NATO next year.

According to BBC analysis, Kosovo, Bosnia, and Macedonia all have intricate safety nets, thanks both to the international presence and the experience gathered in many previous storms.

"Serbia has perhaps the greatest potential for international isolation and misery unless it reconsiders its current position."

The new government and assembly in Kosovo will begin quietly implementing the Ahtisaari plan for conditional independence, despite the sometimes dignified, sometimes desperate, protests of Belgrade.

After all, "the future of the Balkans will depend on investment, and wages - not the race to set up diplomatic representation in Pristina," BBC said, adding that 2008 could be the year the clouds of war finally disappear.

MD: We'll see what happens, there has been promised alot over the last couple of years.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

NAME MORE IMPORTANT THAN NATO

National.

If we need to make an ultimate choice - NATO membership or change of country's name - we will stand behind the name, Macedonian President Branko Crvenkovski said in an interview for Alsat-M TV.

Greece's eventual veto on Macedonia's admission to NATO would mean a blatant breach of the 1995 interim treaty, consequently, this document would not be in effect for the Republic of Macedonia as well, President Crvenkovski said.

He estimates that both Macedonia and Greece undergo a pressure to reach a solution to name dispute.

"Pressure is piled on both countries. Our country has been urged to be more constructive towards Greece, whilst Greece has been urged not to use the veto powers," Crvenkovski said.

Asked to comment the so-called "May agreement" between VMRO-DPMNE and DUI, President Trajkovski said any agreement should be complied with, and the obligations arising from the agreement should be fulfilled.

Crvenkovski blamed the government of wasting precious time in terms of reaching agreement with opposition parties over pivotal issues. Therefore, the country did not get a starting date of EU accession talks.

"Some saw the ratings more important than showing co-operation in bridging the obstacles," Crvenkovski told Alsat-M TV.

MD: He is right about that! The name is the most important thing a country can have.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Thursday, December 27, 2007

AMAZING MACEDONIA

National.

Monograph “Amazing Macedonia” of “Third Ear” production house, which was promoted on Tuesday, aims at presenting the natural beauties of Macedonia through music, church singing and authentic sounds.

“This is the first such visual-acoustic recording in Macedonia. Besides photographs and the music, authentic sounds of nature have been used, and the entire story has slight amount of text”, said Ivo Jankovski at the promotion.

The project, supported by Macedonian Telecommunications, uses over 200 photographs of country’s beauties and over 100 original sounds of nature. Its goal is to affirm the country, and will therefore be distributed in all Macedonian embassies worldwide, foreign embassies to Macedonia, churches, the diaspora, universities, tourism fairs. The DVD is made in Macedonian and English languages. Eftim Kletnikov wrote the preface titled “Macedonia is a name with Powerful and Magical Sound”.

MD: Vladimir Arsovski is the photographer, sounds were recorded in studio “The Hidden Dragon”, Zlatko Origjanski is the music author, while the church singing comes from album “St. Jovan Harmonski”, issued by “Third Ear”.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

NEW ARMTROOPS IN IRAQ

National.

A ceremony to mark the deployment of ARM's mechanized infantry platoon within Iraqi Freedom, will take place in Ohrid on Wednesday.

The main task of the squad, comprised of 36 professional soldiers and senior officers, is to secure the coalition force camp in Taji. The platoon of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade of the ARM took part in the NATO-led ISAF mission in Afghanistan.

The ceremony will take place at Mihailo Apostolski Barracks in Ohrid. Major General Zoran Dimov, the Commander of the ARM's Joint Operational Command, as well as other guests are expected to attend the event.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

MAN KILLED BY LOCOMOTIVE

National.

An old man was struck and killed by a train near Gjorce Petrov railway station late on Tuesday, police said.

Ministry of Interior said the locomotive, owned by Macedonian Railways, was driven by J. M. It hit the pedestrian Alija I. (94) on the railroad tracks. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Interior Ministry gave no additional details as to the cause of the accident, which happened Tuesday around 19:00 hrs.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

TV VATICAN WITH SPECIAL FOR TOSE

National.

A special program focusing on the spiritual and humanitarian devotion of the late Macedonian pop singer Tose Proeski was aired today within the Christmas Program of TV Vatican.

The 15-minute story about Tose and his faith in the God Almighty underscores that throughout his short life, he was wholeheartedly dedicated to the religion, church and humanitarian actions, and his songs are described as prayers.

The program also mentions that Tose was bringing warmth and joy in the hearts of all people, regardless of their nation, religion or age.

TV Vatican unveils that Tose Proeski took Mother Theresa as his guide in the humanitarian work. As a member of the organization "Mother Theresa from Skopje", he often prayed in Mother Theresa's memorial room that he used as a shrine to find the internal peace and inspiration for his work.

The program underlines that Tose has been picked as a person of the year in Macedonia and Croatia. He was a trustee of a monastery under construction, and a church is planned to be built to the "Angel of Our Time" beside his grave in Krusevo.

TV Vatican mentions also the idea of canonizing Tose as he is remembered as a symbol of the Love for God and humanity.

A separate panel displayed in the House of Mother Theresa's Sisters shows Tose as receiving his latest award - the statue of Mother Theresa, as well as a postal stamp depicting Tose as an angel with a dove.

MD: Nice to see him being appreciated around the world!

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

CULTURAL AND PUBLISHING ACTIVITIES OF MACEDONIANS IN SERBIA

Diaspora.

In the framework of celebrations of Day of the National Council of the Macedonian National Minority in Serbia, which was held in village Jabuka, first issues of children’s magazine “Zunica” and magazine on literature, art and culture “Videlo” came out these days.

Alongside monthly information review “Makedonska Videlina”, these are the three heralds published by “Makedonski Informativen i Izdavacki Centar” from Pancevo, edited by academician Risto Vasilevski.
The first issues of the magazines came out with the financial support of the National Council of Macedonians in Serbia, while their regular issuance is to be assisted by the Macedonian and Serbian Culture Ministries, as well as the Vojvodina Secretariat on Education and Culture.

The celebrations in Jabuka were enriched with the promotion of new cultural-artistic club “Tose Proeski”, managed by Borce Velickovski from Pancevo.

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

YOUNG ARTIST WITH GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

Culture.

Twelve-year-old artist Stefan Pleskonjic met Monday with Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski, who was informed on the European and global success of the young painter.

Besides the annual scholarship for talents, PM Gruevski promised support for the projects planned and realized by Pleskonjic, including the upcoming display in Brussels.

In the framework of his promotion worldwide, a New York display is to be held in the near future.

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

ORTHODOX THEOLOGY FACULTY MARKS 30TH ANNIVERSARY

National.

Skopje-based Orthodox Faculty of Theology "St. Clement of Ohrid" marks Monday its 30-year anniversary. Given the occasion, a formal ceremony took place at the faculty which was attended by the head of Macedonian Orthodox Church, H.H. Stefan, rector of Ss. Cyril and Methodius University Gjorgji Martinovski, chairman of Committee on Relations among Religious Communities Zvonko Mucunski, bishops, priests, university professors, academicians and students.

- In 2007 we mark 30 years of the establishment of the Orthodox Faculty of Theology in this our, modern form (1977-2007) or 1121 years of the theological studies that laid the foundations of St. Clement's University in Ohrid (886-2007), said faculty's dean Ratomir Grozdanovski in his address.

So far, 1.229 students were enrolled at the Orthodox Faculty of Theology, out of which 248 obtained their diploma during the past 30 years.

The Macedonian opera bard Boris Trajanov performed at the ceremony, where also an exhibit of Macedonian iconography was opened.

MD: Congratulations! Many years to come..

[Mia]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

SIGHTS OF MACEDONIA

National.

Christmas gifts given with a helicopter to children of members of the military trade union
(Photo credit should read MIA News Agency)

[MD Network]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

AGREEMENT ON REMAINING EU LAWS

National.

The ruling and opposition party leaders reached an agreement today for the Parliament to adopt all the EU-related bills shortly after the New Year.

The leaders of the four largest parliamentary parties brought into accord their stances on all of the 18 bills of key importance for Euro-integration process and hammered out a deal for their adoption on 3th and 4th of January, Telma TV station reported.

According to the same source, at the meeting that wrapped up late Monday, the leaders of the ruling VMRO DPMNE and DPA, and of the opposition SDSM and DUI, did not discuss the bill on use of languages or regulation referring to the state benefit for the former NLA fighters.

At the last meeting for this year, the partisan leaders opened the issue of the Bill on Public Prosecution, and upon initiative of DPA and DUI, discussed the possibility of voting under Badinter principle in the Constitutional Court.

According to the announcements, the discussion on these issues will resume at the next leadership meeting that will take place after the New Year's Holidays.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Monday, December 24, 2007

KATANEC STAYS

Sports.

Srecko Katanec has decided to coach Macedonia's national football team for additional two years and also to lead the team through qualifications for the World Cup 2010.

The news was announced Friday by Football Federation of Macedonia (FFM) on its official web site, Makfax news agency said.

"The good co-operation with FFM, the quality of the national team and the group for the World Cup 2010 qualifications were crucial moments for the continuation of cooperation," FFM president Hari Hadziristeski said.

He added that Katanec asked for no extra conditions, but he made the decision under big pressure from Slovenia's public, demanding that he takes the helm of Slovenia national team.

The news on Katanec's decision was published today by Slovenian media. The Football Federation of Slovenia also came up with an official statement.

MD: Some are satisfied with this, some hate it. Anyway, the way of playing really should change, if we want to be succesful in the qualifiers.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

OHRID HOTELS FULLY BOOKED

National.

All attractive hotels in Ohrid are fully booked and a part of the private accommodation capacities are reserved for the New Year's holiday, Makfax's correspondent reported.

The local authorities are expecting tourists to swarm in Ohrid this year, for which aim they have
planned a rich program for the season's holiday.

Since Thursday night, Ohrid's central square and the surrounding parks have been adorned with appropriate New Year's decoration, with a 9-meter high glowing Christmas tree as a centerpiece. As much as 300.000 denars have been set apart for this year's decorations of the town.

The majority of hotels offer two- or three-day arrangements at prices ranging 120 to 150 euros, while the restaurants and coffee bars charge 20 to 70 euros per person for the New Year's Eve celebration parties.

MD: The city is fully decorated, and visited by alot of Greeks.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

POLL RESULTS

MD Network.

For a while we've been asking you about who you want to see as coach of the National football team. Katanec has just stated that he will stay this week, but anyway here are the results:

32% of you wanted Katanec to stay.
2% wanted Goko Hadzieski
1% for Milko Gjurovski
14% for Cedomir Janevski
33% for Darko Pancev
2% for Bosko Gjurovski
and 12 % chose some other.

Also participate in our next poll, which you can find at the right of this page.

[MD Network]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Saturday, December 22, 2007

EXPLORATION OF STOBI

Culture.

The Museum of Macedonia published the booklet Forum Romanum Stobis", by authors Mila Surbanoska and Antonio Jakimovski, which presents the results of the project "Archaeological and Tourist Vaporization of Roman Town of Stobi". The exploration of the largest and richest antique locality in Macedonia was conducted in the period 2003-2006 in cooperation with the Foundation CISS Palermo.

The Museum of Macedonia has launched the project four years ago. In 2005 CISS joined the project as main financier. Excavations in Stobi resulted in rather valuable discoveries: early-Roman city center and the Roman Forum with impressive 5.5 meter-high arches that make it a unique structure discovered so far in Macedonia.

Stobi was an ancient town of Paionia, later conquered by Macedon, and later still incorporated into the Roman province of Macedonia Salutaris (now in the Republic of Macedonia). It is located on the main road that leads from the Danube to the Aegean Sea and is considered by many to be the most famous archaeological site in the Republic of Macedonia. Stobi was built where the Erigon river (Crna) joins the Axios river (Vardar), making it important strategically as a center for both trade and warfare.

Stobi for Macedonia is like Babylon for Iraq, Mycenae for Greece, Knossos for Crete, Memphis for Egypt..., said Pasko Kuzman, Director of the Cultural Heritage Protection Office.

He however pointed out that this unique locality was not getting sufficient attention, despite the possibilities it has been offering for developing tourism and scientific researches.

The locality has been neglected, without appropriate infrastructure, Kuzman said, pointing out that in the near future, with the Government's support, it will become and independent institution.

The exploration project has come to an end, but the cooperation between the Museum Macedonia and CISS Palermo will resume in 2008, namely exhibits on Stobi will be opened in Palermo and Bari. The future activities also include launching of a website and reconstruction of Stobi Museum.

[Mia]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:16 am | Permalink | Comments

ORGAN TRAFFICKING IN MACEDONIA

National.

The human organs trafficking is on the rise in the east-European countries, including Macedonia, says the latest report of the American Medical Association.

Organ harvesting operations flourish in Turkey, Moldova and Byelorussia, followed by
Macedonia, Russia, Romania, Bosnia, Albania, Kosovo and other east European countries.

A practice of traveling to east Europe for so-called "transplant tourism" has functioning for a while now, the American Medical Association said.

According to the same source, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Kosovo and the region of the former Yugoslavia are the most common destination of this kind of "tourism".

The most demanded organs include kidneys, lungs, liver, heart valves and even skin.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

SCHENGEN ZONE ENLARGES

Regional.

New member states of the Schengen zone include Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia and Malta.

Today the states parties to the Schengen Agreement include Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, Greece, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden.

The date for lifting internal border control for land and sea-borders is December 21, 2007 and for air borders - March 30, 2008.

A Schengen visa issued by a diplomatic mission of one of these countries is valid in all member-states.

New member states will start issuing Schengen visas on 21 December 2007. The conditions will be the same as for the Schengen visas issued by the present Schengen member states.

The EC officials further said that third-country nationals subject has to apply for visas at the consulate of the Schengen state of his/her main destination (main reason for the visit or the longest visit in case of visiting more than one state). If the state of main destination cannot be determined (intention to make visits of equal length in different member states), the application has to be submitted to the consulate of the state of first entry.

Third country nationals can travel with one Schengen visa within the whole Schengen area including new member states. The abolition of internal border checks does not affect the exercise of security checks on persons carried out at ports and airports, the EC noted.

The European Commission underscored that national short-stay visa remains valid even after 21 December 2007; however, it will be valid only for stay in the territory of the member state which issued that visa. However, during a transitional period, until June 21, 2008 such a national short-stay visa issued by one of the member states joining the Schengen area allows for transit through the territory of the other member states joining the Schengen area, except for transits through the territory of Estonia and Lithuania.

MD: Thanks to this enlargement, many Macedonians are applying to get a Slovenian visa now

[Mia]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:12 am | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

OVATIONS FOR TRPCESKI IN PHILADELPHIA

Culture.

Macedonian piano virtuoso Simon Trpceski performed for the first time with the world-renowned Philadelphia Symphonic Orchestra in the course of the past weekend.

Trpceski’s three concerts were sold out, held under the baton of Antonio Papano, the musical director of royal opera “Covent Garden” in London. The program included pieces by Glinka and Rachmaninov, while Trpceski received ovations for his performance of Concerto No.3 for piano and orchestra by Prokofiev.

“It is a provocation to play with the orchestra, which is one of the five leading in America. The chance to play with Antonio Papano is more than a privilege, because he is currently one of the best world conductors”, said Trpceski.
Papano said of Trpceski, “This is my second opportunity to cooperate with Simon. His development is fantastic, having the power to perform a different repertoire. He possesses incredible virtuosity and skill to create such beautiful colors with the piano”.

The Philadelphia performance marked the end of this year’s exceptionally successful U.S. tour, which included four sold out concerts with the New York Philharmonic, as well as the legendary Lorin Mazel by the end of September.

MD: Congratulations! Trpceski is very popular among classical music lovers, and get's even more popular day by day.

[Simon Trpceski]

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

CONVENTION ON PROTECTION OF CULTURAL HERITAGE

Culture.

Minister of Culture Arifhikmet Xhemaili and French Ambassador to Macedonia, Bernard Valero signed Monday a Convention for valorization and popularization of Macedonian cultural-historic heritage, in the framework of the Macedonian-French cooperation program established eight years ago.

Several projects have been realized within the program thus far, such as signal systems in Skopje and Bitola, multimedia exhibition on Macedonia's capital, study tours in France, seminars for revitalization of traditional crafts, and inventory for buildings in Old Skopje Bazaar.

The new agreement enables continuation and renewal of partnership relations. It envisages participation of the Committee for Revitalization of the Old Skopje Bazaar and restoration of one Bazaar house, publication and an exhibition, overhaul of Skopje's signal system, exchange of experts, network of historic cities in Republic of Macedonia.
"It is an honor and satisfaction to confirm the cooperation between Macedonia and France in the field of cultural heritage protection. We have confirmed the continuity since 1999 in the bilateral cooperation between the ministries and the countries in general", stressed Culture Minister Xhemaili.

Ambassador Valero said this is a new stage in the applied cooperation, which began almost a decade ago.
"Throughout the years, we have carried out a number of activities focusing on the invaluable cultural-historic richness of your country. France possesses long-standing experience in preservation, valorization and restoration of cultural heritage, which we continue to share with you", said ambassador Valero.

He underlined that Macedonia's cultural heritage is a true treasury, which needs to be protected for two reasons - because is it necessary for the collective memory of a country, and because it is in the function of the country's economic development and tourism.

MD: Indeed it is a true treasure, and needs to protected!

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:16 am | Permalink | Comments

MILOSOSKI MEETS WITH AMBASSADORS

National.

Macedonian Foreign Minister Antonio Miloshoski on Tuesday will kick off a series of meetings with Macedonia's ambassadors and consuls abroad.

The meetings, which will run Tuesday through Thursday, will include three thematic sessions on various themes: Macedonia ahead of NATO summit in Bucharest; Macedonia's activities in the process of integration into EU; and current situation in the region.

During the three-day consultations in Skopje, Macedonian ambassadors and consuls will meet with the Head of State, the Prime Minister, Parliament President and Heads of Parliamentary Committees.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

THE MACEDONIAN PAPARAZZO

Diaspora.

"Simply at the wrong place in the wrong time", says Nikola Arsov, describing the moment he was in the center of world attention.

The time is 31 August 1997, the place, Paris in France and the moment when English princess Lady Diana died. Nikola from Skopje, who is living in France for 4 decennia already, founded himself among the photographers and paparazzo's who were chasing Lady Di's limousine in the streets of Paris, which ended in a tragedy that shocked the world. Arsov was one of them who ended in jail after the accident.

"I wasn't one of them who's main task was to chase Lady Di. Simply, i just happen to be in Paris that weekend for my work, when we found out that Diana was coming to Paris. Imediatelly we were alarmed to find out where she would be and what she would do. And that's how it started and ended in a catastrophy" Arsov says. According to him, himself and his colleagues were only jailed in favor for the English. "Nobody had an exclusive picture of the accident, everything what was shot and filmed that night, untill today, still remains at the police. They hold us for 80 hours, like we were terrorists. But i think that was only to calm down the English people, because we, photographers were seen as guilty for the accident. They also wanted us to show up in front of an English court, but no one went, thats how we decided. That's life, of thousands reporters in France, i was the one who ended up in a police van." he explains.

Nikola Arsov, born in Novo Maalo, Skopje, came to France at the age of seven. He finished dentistry school, but he didn't really liked it. Then he ended up in the French news agency, "Sipa", for whom he is working about 20 years now. He reports everything; sport, politics, lifestyle and in the summer he is a typicall paparazzo, in the last years only in the exclusive Saint Tropez, where the rich and famous relax on their holidays. "Every year from 20 June untill 5 September I am in Saint Tropez, I didn't even have the time to swim in the sea once. It's interesting, when the summer begins, all paparazzo's are travelling to Saint Tropez. The competition is huge and there is a war going on for that one exclusive shot." "We organize everything by ourselves. You always have to be at the same spot, that means you have to eat in the best restaurants and most exclusive hotels, because that is where the stars are."

The biggest money, he made on taking pictures of the Spanish prince, Felipe. He says that one of his photographs earned him 40.000 euro's. "That happened at the time of the Winter Olympics of 2006 in Torino. They called me that the prince Felipe and his wife Leticia were attending a training of the Spanish Olympic delegation, i went there early in the morning. When I got there I saw no one of my colleagues, so I took some intimate shot's of the prince and his wife. Afterwards I sold them for 40.000 euro's to some Spanish newspapers. "Besides of my monthly payment, i also get 10% of all my sold pictures. That's the market, the one who offers the most, get's the pictures. I do know that the English pay the most. They, really, don't give a damn about money, o la la" Says Arsov, adding a bit of French.

Arsov remembers his good friendship with the deceased Macedonian president, Boris Trajkovski. "After one of his visits to Paris, Trajkovski demanded to meet with me. I thought; Who am I? alongside Jacques Chirac, to meet with the president? When we got to meet eachother, he walked upon me and started to hug and kiss me. He was a very good man with an interesting personality. We continued to meet eachother everytime he was visiting France."

Nikola also gave him some tips how to deal with the Macedonian paparazzo's. "Once he said to me; 'In Macedonia paparazzo's are getting popular too. They make pictures of me on holidays, tell me what to do'. I said to him that he should get his own photograph who would go with him to make pictures of him, and give those pictures to the newspapers, as officials." Arsov explains.

[Vest]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

GREEKS BUY CHRISTMAS TREES IN BITOLA

National.

Organized groups, but also individuals from Greece crossed over the border this weekend to buy hundreds of christmas trees at the Bitola 'Stara Carsija'. "We haven't had so many customers for a long time. From small to big trees. The most expensive are about 2000 Denars, and in Greece there aren't many cheaper than 50 euro's.", a Bitola bussinesman says.

Popular are also christmas decorations, lamps and colour paint sprays. "The Greeks are preparing for christmas which they celebrate on the 25th of December, they all buy walnuts, apples, chestnuts and other delicacies." , a shopkeeper says.

MD: Macedonia will be visited by Greeks alot this time of the year. Leaving money especially in casino's at the border towns and of course in hotels and restaurants in the Ohrid region, as well as christmas trees!

[Vest]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

MACEDONIANS AMONG THE POOREST IN EUROPE

National.

Macedonians are among the three poorest nations in Europe with only 28 percent of the average EU purchasing power, European statistics bureau Eurostat reported on Monday.

Only Bosnia-Herzegovina with 26 percent and Albania with 21 percent of the average Union's purchasing power, are ranked behind Macedonia.

Eurostat's survey encompassed a total of 37 countries, including the 27 members of EU, three candidate-countries, three EFTA member-countries and four countries from Western Balkans.

The richest countries in the region are Greece (98%), Slovenia (88%) and Croatia with about half of the average EU purchasing power. Romanians, Bulgarians, Serbs, Montenegrins and Turks have purchasing power of around one-third of the EU average.

The richest EU citizens are the Luxembourgers who enjoy 250 percent more purchasing power than average. The Irish come in second place with almost 50 percent more than the average.

MD: Well that's not so suprisingly. But Macedonia used to stand before Bulgaria, Romania and Serbia some years ago. Norwegians, Swiss and Dutch people belong to the group of richest Europeans.

[MakFax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Monday, December 17, 2007

'CHOOSE MK QUALITY - FOR A BETTER LIFE' CAMPAIGN

National.

By giving away CDs and by elaborating the promotional activity for purchasing domestic products - "Choose MKquality - For Better Life" to representatives of the Economic Chamber and the Association of Commerce Chambers, Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski officially launched the new campaign for buying Macedonian products on Sunday outside the Tineks supermarket located in Skopje's Karpos 3 municipality.

The PM said this campaign was a logical resumption of "Buy Macedonian Products" campaign implemented in 1999 which "gave excellent results" according to the presidents of the Economic Chamber and the Association of Commerce Chambers, Branko Azeski and Venko Gligorov respectively. The Republic of Macedonia has quality products. All we need is to raise the awareness regarding the goods made in Macedonia. That is the objective of the campaign "Buy Our Quality Products For Better Life", said Gruevski at campaign's launch.

He emphasised the importance of buying domestic products for the development of economy and industry as well as for opening new jobs. We need to strengthen the sentiment of nationality and to overcome the Macedonian complex that everything that is foreign has better quality. We cannot expect to be respected by others, unless we don't respect ourselves, stressed Gruevski. The Macedonian PM said that by buying Macedonian products which "have the best ratio price-quality in the region and beyond", beside investing in meeting our needs, we would invest in improving the national competitiveness and enterprises' productivity.

The owner's earnings increase with each bought product made in a local factory. Hence, the owner will invest in opening new plants, even factories, which will contribute to opening new jobs and raising the salaries, noted Gruevski, adding that the most important thing was that the money remain in the country. President of the Economic Chamber Branko Azeski said that Macedonia had quality products at the Western market eight years after conducting the first campaignn "Buy Macedonian Products". He added that the global business community favored such campaigns, which currently were being implemented in Croatia, Denmark, Great Britain and were being prepared in several EU member countries. Welcoming the campaign, the president of the Association of Commerce Chambers Venko Gligorov said that it would contribute to bolstering the business climate in Macedonia. This campaign contributes to creating an ambient, motivation to produce and work better, he said.

The new campaign is also being supported by number of business community representatives hoping that it would contribute to raising the awareness of the local buyer that Macedonian products had quality, "thus obliging them to justify the choice of the local buyer with quality products." The quality for us is, first and foremost" an uncompromising condition for success, they said.

[Mia]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

SIGHTS OF MACEDONIA

National.

Posters promoting Simon Trpcevski's concerts in Philadelphia, the United States of America.
(Photo credit should read MIA News Agency)

[MD Network]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

MACEDONIA, GREEK BUSSINESMEN OPPOSE DOUBLE TAXATION

National.

Business community in Macedonia and Greece called for timely signing of bilateral agreement on avoidance of double taxation between the two countries.

Branko Azeski, the president of the Economic Chamber of Macedonia, called on his Greek counterpart George Kassimatis to urge both governments to sign such an agreement immediately.

According to statement released by Economic Chamber of Macedonia, the initiative was backed by Greek side. Business communities in both countries share the view that this process needs to go on regardless of development of the current political processes, and should be in the spirit of the interim treaty.

The regulation of double taxation avoidance is a priority that will have a direct impact on the volume and quality of Greek investments in Macedonia, as well as on economic cooperation in general, the statement said.
Greece, EU member, is the second largest trade partner of Macedonia and also a third largest partner in general with 15% share in the country's overall export and 8.5% share in country's import.

MD: Greek investments compromise 15.26% of overall investments in the country.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Saturday, December 15, 2007

MACEDONIAN ANIMATOR WORKS ON "BEOWULF" MOVIE

Culture.

Macedonian animator Orde Stevanovski worked on the latest Hollywood animated blockbuster, “Beowulf,” directed by Robert Zemeckis. Stevanovski, the author of the Macedonian first 3D-animated film, “Levy in Love” is living in Los Angeles and working for Sony Imageworks.

In “Beowulf,” which stars Anthony Hopkins, John Malkovich and Angelina Jolie, Stevanovski was hired as Color & Lighting Technical Director. He said for Vecer that he worked on virtual lighting and compositing, i.e. composing all the layers of digital elements: characters, backgrounds, effects etc. in a final scene. “I am working on testing and developing internal software until the next project that should start early next year,” he said. He was a user of scholarship of the Institute of Film and Animation with Rochester Institute of Technology in New York. His previous film stint was in the Serbian feature film “Charleston and Ognjenka” (2060 where he worked as the visual effect producer.

Based on a Nordic epic, “Beowulf” has still been among the top ten box-office record movies with 76 million dollars after several weeks of showing. Critics see it as a step forward in the film animation and 3D technology

MD: Congratulations to him, for making it so far!

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:18 am | Permalink | Comments

MACEDONIA TO START WITH SCOTLAND AND THE NETHERLANDS

Sports.

Macedonia will start the qualifiers for the football World Cup (WC) 2010 hosting the strongest opponents in the group - Scotland and Netherlands. This was the result of the meeting for setting the schedule of the qualifier games, held on Friday in Amsterdam.

The meeting was attended by representatives of all five teams that play in the qualification group 9: Macedonia, Netherlands, Scotland, Norway and Island. The qualifiers will start in 2008, and the first matches, on 6 September will be Macedonia-Scotland and Norway-Island.

Next opponent of Macedonia is Holland that will come to Skopje on 10 September next year. Macedonia will finish the qualifications in September 2009 with the match in Norway.

The president of the Football Federation of Macedonia (FFM) Hari Haxhi-Risteski after the meeting said that the schedule for the matches is a result of compromises made by all five national teams.

For Macedonia, it is most important that we will meet Scotland and Netherlands in a time frame that leaves us most time for preparations, and with good start of the qualifying cycle, the motivation could be extremely high", FFM president said.

The schedule for the WC 2010 qualifier matches:

06.09.2008 Macedonia-Scotland
10.09.2008 Macedonia-Netherlands
15.10.2008 Island-Macedonia
01.04.2009 Netherlands-Macedonia
06.06.2009 Macedonia-Norway
10.06.2009 Macedonia-Island
05.09.2009 Scotland-Macedonia
09.09.2009 Norway-Macedonia.

MD: Well, maybe its a positive thing for us that the harder opponents are at the beginning

[Makfax

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

MUNICIPALITY GRANTS 5000 MKD TO NEWBORNS

National.

Skopje's municipality of Aerodrom will provide financial assistance amounting 5.000 denars to each infant to be born in this municipality in 2008.

The Aerodrom Municipality Council upheld the initiative by mayor Kiril Todorovski to award grants to newborns.

The money will be awarded to each infant that will be born in 2008 in this municipality, regardless of family size i.e. for first, second or third child.

Aid money will be awarded on the bases of application by the family submitted to the Municipality of Aerodrom, accompanied by necessary documents to verify the birth of an infant and the place of residence.

MD: That's interesting ;)

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

Friday, December 14, 2007

OHRID WITH NEW ART UNIVERSITY NEXT YEAR

Culture.

Construction of a building of an Art University and Museum is starting in Ohrid next year, according to official announcements reported by Koha. The announcement was made by the renowned Italian artist, Vincenzo Bianchi on the Day of the Patron of Ohrid, St. Kliment Ohridski. According to Bianchi, the University will be named after the founder of Ohrid, Kadmi.

Bianchi has supported the initiative to construct a museum that will display significant works by artists from the country and the world. Bianchi is one of the most prominent sculptors in the world who opened the First Academy of Sculpture in Florence. He has around 600 works exhibited throughout the world and is the owned of 12 museums of art in European cities.

MD: Nice initiative! Construction on the new University at Plaosnik are on it's way.

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

55 MILLION INVESTMENT

National.

Johnson Matthey's initial investment in Macedonia will be Euro 55 million, whereas significant investments are expected in coming years which will augment this amount, stated Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski and Johnson Matthey representative Geoffrey Collin after Thursday's meeting in the Government regarding the details linked to the investment.

Gruevski said the Government was prepared to assist in all preparatory phases, adding the company would obtain every benefit envisaged by law.

So far, we've established promising cooperation and I hope that their plan will be realised in time, stressed the PM.

Geoffrey Collin said that investment's first phase would be in the automotive industry, adding that their business plan for the next seven to ten years envisaged considerable investment increase in Macedonia.

Macedonia is our focus of investment in automotive, chemical and pharmaceutical industry in forthcoming years, Collin noted.

The reason for investing in Macedonia, according to him, was certain tax mitigations, the low-cost economy and country's strategic location.

The construction of company's facilities are set to kick off in February 2008, while the manufacturing process will start in April-May 2009.

MD: Keep the investments coming! ;)

[MIA]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:16 am | Permalink | Comments

TRAJANOV PERFORMS IN PARIS AND NEW YORK

Culture.

Macedonian baritone and UNESCO Ambassador Boris Trajanov had a successful solo performance in the lead role in the opera “The Italian Girl in Algiers” within the concerts gala - Music for Peace - organized by UNESCO in Paris and New York on 26th November and 3rd December respectively.

Viktor Pavlovski, a spokesman for Trajanov, said the Paris concert was attended by numerous audiences at the UNESCO General Assembly building in Paris. Besides Trajanov, soloists from Russia, France and Brazil took part in the opera. Macedonian musician Dragan Dautovski played in the traditional orchestra of folk instruments from all over the world.

“The concert at the Lincoln Centre in New York has fully justified the announcements from the poster, “Unforgettable Gala Event.” President of the UN General Assembly Srgjan Kerim and the UNESCO Vice Director General, Hans d’Orvilkoy, who was the honorary guest of the donation evening held immediately after the concert at the prestigious Metropolitan Club in the Fifth Avenue, attended the concert, Pavlovski said.

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

DAYS OF MACEDONIAN CULTURE IN ZAGREB

Culture.

An exhibition entitled “Macedonian Christian Roots” – replicas of terra cotta icons, was opened at the Prigorje Museum in Zagreb yesterday. The show is organized within the Days of Macedonian Culture in Zagreb.

The event will be accompanied with the performance of Ohridski Biser Folk Ensemble in Zagreb and Dragutin Damjanovic Folk Ensemble in Vugrovec.

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:11 am | Permalink | Comments

Thursday, December 13, 2007

MORE SKOPJE FORTRESS ARTIFACTS EXHIBITED

Culture.

A bronze coin with the image of Alexander III of Macedonia, the oldest coin ever discovered on the Skopje Kale (Skopje Fortress), is only one of the epochal findings that are presented in an exhibition of artifacts unearthed on the Skopje Kale, which opened on 10th December. Hundreds of citizens, students of the Faculty of Archaeology, archaeologists, academicians, politicians were a part of the visitors that came to see the new significant cultural heritage Macedonia has got. Numismatic experts should now interpret what the coin with the image of Alexander III on the Fortress means. Experts usually say that bronze coins are those that were used in daily trade and are a sign of who used to reign and manag the territory they have been found on.

The show was opened by Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski whose government has set the cultural heritage as one of its top priorities for the first time.

“Continuity of life on this hill near the Vardar is measured at 6,000 years by archaeologists. This richness of cultural layers will enable us to elevate the cultural, historical and civilization level of the Macedonian statehood,” the Prime Minister said.
After seven months of intensive archaeological excavations on the Kale, the team for exploration, conservation and revitalization of the Skopje Fortress is very happy with what have been unearthed. “Expectations have been exceeded in many segments. This exhibition has ambitions to present those result as comprehensively as possible,” Prof. Dr. Dragi Mitrevski, the Project Coordinator says.

The oldest remains of man’s activity on the Kale are related to the Bronze Age whereas its continual and lively historical development as an urban centre or mediaeval Skopje started in the late 10th century or under Samoil. “Under Samoil, the Kale was protected with finely built walls, which completely enclose the Upper Town forming a unique fortification system constructed under the highest criteria and construction techniques at the time. Numerous coins from the 10th and 11th centuries, funerals in the inner side of the south wall, war axes and arrows, ceramics and other small findings from the same period mean that the Kale most likely functioned as a large military castron.“

MD: Already so much has been found, who knows what else lies beneath the Macedonian soil. The show in the Skopje Museum will remain open for a while. Idea for a visit?

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:18 am | Permalink | Comments

ISRAELI'S INVEST IN MACEDONIA

National.

The Israeli real estate investment firm Gazit-Globe Ltd said on Wednesday it plans to invest about 100 million euros to develop a commercial centre in Skopje.

Gazit-Globe said in a statement it won a tender for a 42,000 square metre plot of land in Macedonia's capital with a bid of about 19 million euros, news agency Reuters reported. The statement added that the compound will comprise some 150,000 square meters.

According to Israeli media, the company plans to build a 60,000-square meter mall and office and hotel high-rises with 90,000 square meters of space altogether on the site.

MD: This is their first investment in Macedonia but the company is active in several Eastern European countries as well as India, Brasil, Canada and the United States.

[Gazit-Globe]

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

VIKINGS IN MACEDONIA?

National.

Few-month long archaeological excavations on the Skopje Fortress (Skopje Kale) have shown exclusive results including those confirming that the Vikings used to live on the territory of Skopje.

Official documentation of the archaeological excavations of the Fortress states that in the late 11th century the Normans (Vikings), once known as producers of quality steel weapons, stayed in Skopje. Their presence in Skopje was recorded on two occasions, in 1081 to 1088 and in 1097 respectively.

Evidence of their presence here includes parts of a Viking weapon found unearthed during the archaeological excavations of the Fortress. The Normans produced their weapons in blacksmith shops also found on the Fortress.

The coordinator of the excavations Dragi Mitrevski says the Fortress still offers significant findings.

“Few-month long excavations have shown that remains from the 4th millennium B.C until today can be found under the Fortress,” he says.

MD: Wow, that's very interesting, look for more at the link below.

[Skopsko Kale]

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

CENTRAL COOPERATIVE BANK BUYS TWO MACEDONIAN BANKS

National.

The Bulgarian "Central Cooperative Bank" received consent from the National Bank of Macedonia (NBM) to acquire "Postenska Banka" and "Sileks Banka".

The consent was issued at the end of last week by the Governor of the NBM, Petar Gosev, his cabinet announced on Tuesday.

The transactions are to be completed within 180 days, and the Bulgarian bank could acquire two-thirds ownership of "Postenska" and 100% of "Sileks" bank.

The total financial potential of the "Central Cooperative Bank", according to the revised financial report at the end of 2006 was 578,8 million Euros, and the capital position was 60 million Euros, increased in December 2007 to 98 million Euros.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

FORMER MINISTER ACCUSED OF ABUSE OF OFFICE

National.

The former minister for transport and communications, Xhemali Mehazi, was accused of unlawful sale of state land in Skopje to Serbian company Delta-M for 4,7 million Denars.

In June 2006, Mehazi signed the agreement with Delta-M for selling of the land in Karpos municipality with area of 4.699 square meters for 1.000 Denars per square meter, which the Police deems as breaking of the law, because before the direct agreement the ministry did not receive or verify any investment programme of the buyer.

After checking the company that had produced the investment programme of Delta-M, the Police established that the document was submitted to the ministry after nearly two weeks.

The Police pressed charges against Mehazi and four executives of the Ministry of Transport and Communications due to reasonable suspicion of committing criminal act, abuse of office.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

MACEDONIA AT JUNIOR EUROVISION SONGCONTEST

Culture.

Last weekend the Junior Eurovision Songcontest was held in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Out of 17 contestants, Alexey Zhigalkovich from Belarus managed to win with the song S Druzyami (With Friends).

Macedonia ended on the 5th place, represented by Rosica and Dimitar with the song; "Ding Ding Dong". They are both from the town of Negotino, 12 years old and are in the sixth grade of school. Inspired by the Year of Ecology-campaign, he and Rosica have recorded a CD and a video spot named The Earth is crying. Rosica also participated in the Super Star competition three times.

It was a great show, with great guest artists, like Katie Melua and wonderful performances of all the 17 contestants. This festivall is almost as good as the normal Eurovision songcontest.

MD: Congratulations to them, they do obviously better than the Macedonians at the normal festivall. You can listen to their song at the link below

[Macedonia @ Junior Eurovision songcontest]

[Eurovision.tv]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:18 am | Permalink | Comments

THE EU WILL PREVENT VIOLENCE IN MACEDONIA

National.

The European Union (EU) will do everything to avoid any kind of spillover of eventual violence in Kosovo or in the neighborhood to Macedonia.

The special representative of Portugal EU presidency Antonio Tanger Correa in an interview for the "Euro Zoom" TV show.

"Macedonia is a country with certain fragility in its composition. It is a very important country and should be preserved, but if there is radicalization in the region, there is risk of transferring that radicalization to Macedonia. We in the EU will do everything to avoid that", Correa said.

He pointed out that there are many problems in the region, such as the final status of Kosovo and the problems in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH).

"Serbia and BiH are key countries in the region. If there is instability in these two countries, than the stability of the region will be in question", Correa said.

The Portuguese diplomat emphasized the importance of EU engagement in finding solution of these issues, because that could endanger the stability of a region that is part of Europe.

According to him, EU wants the final status of Kosovo to be solved with a resolution of the UN Security Council, but if that can not be done, "Europe will take the matters in its own hands and will solve the problem, Correa said.

MD: The deadline for the talks on Kosovo was passed yesterday and it seems they will declare independence. The UK has already stated they would recognize Kosovo. Many are fearing a new conflict, we'll see what happens, with our fingers crossed.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

CONSTRUCTION ON OLD THEATRE TO START

Culture.

Construction of the Old Theatre started on Friday on the foundations that were laid earlier this year. More than one million euros are allotted from the 2008 budget of the Ministry of Culture for construction.
State Secretary of Culture Elizabeta Kancevska Milevska says construction works started immediately after authorization was obtained from the City of Skopje which includes expanded dimensions of the theatre and the traffic solution around the theatre.

The theatre is being built under the design of Jovan Stefanovski-Zan. Externally, it will preserve the authentic looks of the old baroque architecture of the old theatre building, and the interior will have room adapted to the Modern European standards – with around 900 seats and a movable three-level stage. Foreign experts will be consulted on stage technique and acoustics.
Construction of the new theatre building, i.e. “resurrection" of an old theatre that was located on the left bank of the Vardar River until the disastrous 1963 earthquake, will last by 2009 when the theatre is expected to be open for the public.

[Culture.in.mk]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

Monday, December 10, 2007

GRUEVSKI AND MILOSOSKI WITH DIPLOMATIC OFFENSIVE IN PORTUGAL

National.

PM Nikola Gruevski and FM Antonio Milososki who participate at EU-Africa Summit also launch diplomatic offensive connected with the activities for Macedonia's admission in NATO.

Gruevski in Lisbon met with the German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the EU High Representative for the CFSP Javier Solana, Finnish President Tarja Halonen, Dutch PM Jan Peter Balkenende, Dutch Foreign Minister Maxime Verhagen, President of the European Comission, Barroso and Parliament president, Poettering. He also met with Prime Ministers of Turkey, Estonia and Slovenia, and Estonia, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Andrus Ansib and Janez Jansa as well as with Austrian Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer.

This is an excellent opportunity at such summits where almost all EU prime ministers are present, to meet and to told them about our progress, to lobby for Macedonia and to ask for assistance but also to point out certain matters which others want to present differently, PM Gruevski stated Saturday in Lisbon.

I have presented all progresses that the Government achieved both on political and economic plan, regarding the good inter-ethnic relations and Ohrid Agreement implementation as well as on fight against crime and corruption in Macedonia. I asked for support and asked not to come under the influence of states, PM Gruevski said. Main focus at the summit is bilateral meetings prior to NATO invitation, which we expect in April 2008. This is our diplomatic offensive of lobbying at NATO member states for admission of Macedonia i.e. receiving invitation and also we use the opportunity to point out our values, PM Gruevski said.

He said that this is an excellent opportunity through formal or informal meetings to meet Prime Ministers and Foreign Ministers and to explain them as he said "the truth about Macedonia, the real image of progress and success." Certainly they request to continue with our reforms. Of course we are to work on improvement of all weaknesses and we will lobby till the last day, PM Gruevski said. FM Milososki said that such meetings are a good opportunity for getting impression and sense for Macedonia for its position in the international community and view of our countries - friends in relation to our aspirations for NATO membership and obtaining date for EU talks.

MD: Milososki also said that he thinks Macedonia is on the good track and expects a Nato invitation in April of next year.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

SIGHTS OF MACEDONIA

National.

A delegation of the Russian city of Peskovskoe lays fresh flowers at the St. Clement of Ohrid monument in the centre of the city of Ohrid, Republic of Macedonia.
(Photo credit should read MIA News Agency)

[MD Network]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

NATO INVITATIONS ONLY FOR COUNTRIES THAT MEET THE STANDARDS

National.

Chiefs of diplomacies of NATO member countries on Friday confirmed there will be invitations for joining the Alliance at the Bucharest summit in 2008 for countries that meet NATO standards.

"At the Bucharest summit our leaders intend to invite those countries that meet NATO standards and that are able and want to contribute to Euro-Atlantic security and stability", says the final statement of the North Atlantic Council.

Ministers commended reform efforts that the three members of the Action Plan for membership - Macedonia, Croatia and Albania - make and called onto them to strengthen these efforts.

The member countries will review the enlargement in more detail in January, when the candidate countries from the Adriatic group should complete the last cycle of the Action Plan for membership.

According to diplomatic sources, at the Bucharest summit scheduled for 2-4 April, an invitation could be given either to Croatia only or to all three countries at once.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Sunday, December 09, 2007

TOSE'S FAMILY WITH PUBLIC APPEAL

National.

The parents of the tragically killed Tose Proeski appealed to all humane people to help and finish the construction of the monastery St. Transfiguration in Krusevo in order to complete the work Tose had started.

"All generations in our Macedonia should take pride of St Transfiguration monastery. Let us make it a venue of piety to all future generations," says the appeal of Dominika and Nikola Proeski, published in the newspapers.

The citizens can make donations by making payments at the account number 0016370490 Iban 0016370490, JSC Stopanska Banka - Krusevo.

"Good people do not make good deeds for kudos or reputation, but because they know that God should be praised single-heartedly and profoundly. That is our prayer," says the message of Tose's parents.

At the same time, they extended gratitude to everybody in Macedonia and across the world who made spiritual bondage with them in the most painful moments of their lives.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments

GREEK - BRITISH BATTLE OVER MACEDONIA

National.

Great Britain stood against Greece's bid to include a special item related to the name of Macedonia in a EU's document, Athens-based daily Kathimerini said.

Greece is putting strong efforts to persuade EU officials to incorporate a remark on the Athens-Skopje dispute over the name in the conclusions of the meeting of the Union's Foreign Ministers slated for Monday.

The suggestions for stepping up the cooperation between EU and Western Balkan's countries at the talks among the Permanent Representatives of the member-countries are also coming under strong opposition.

The text which official Athens seeks to incorporate in the document urges Skopje to push ahead with the efforts for cooperation with all neighbors and specifies that "no progress has been made on the name issue."

Great Britain ruled out the possibility of inclusion of a text with such content. The British Representative even accused his Greek counterpart of lying, claiming that substantial progress over the name was made in July.

The text will be reviewed again on Friday, Kathimerini said.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:15 am | Permalink | Comments

INVEST IN MACEDONIA PROJECT OUTLINED BEFORE GERMANS

National.

Approximately 140 German businessmen from Munich listened the story about Macedonia as a successful business destination presented on Friday by the Macedonian government team led by Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski, MIA correspondent reported.

PM Gruevski outlined Macedonia's key priorities at political and economic plan. The economic reforms - an overall picture of the accomplishments made in the previous period and a vision for the future - were presented by Vice PM Zoran Stavreski, whereas Minister of Transport and Communications Mile Janakieski focused on the investment opportunities in infrastructure such as transportation corridors, airports, the hotel business, real estates and telecommunications.

Bavarian Minister of State for Economy Erwin Huber delivered an address at the promotion, emphasising that Bavarian businessmen were interested to invest in Macedonia. Concluding his address, he evaluated that the Macedonian Government made an excellent economic breakthrough, especially by introducing new technology. Theo Waigel, former German finance minister and advisor of the Macedonian Government, delivered a speech "Macedonia, EU and NATO Candidate Country" before the German businessmen.

Macedonia has an advantage in terms of taxes, free economic zones, something which is rare in each country and it must be used, noted Waigel. He said Macedonia was on a good path generally and towards the EU, thus "the chances must be used in order to make a step further".

Macedonia today in Munich and yesterday in Stuttgart was presented successfully and left an excellent business card, stated Waigel after the presentation. Following the promotion, the Macedonian government delegation held a meeting with representatives of RWE energy company.

Speaking to the reporters after the presentation, Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski said that it was good that the presentations were held in Stuttgart and Munich - in Baden-Wurttemberg and Bavaria - two German states that had great advantage in terms of economic development.

We presented the opportunities and advantages offered by Macedonia before large group of businessmen. This is an excellent opportunity to present the advantages in most direct and close manner, said Gruevski. We offer many advantages, many opportunities and I hope this presentations will result in success, stressed PM Gruevski at the end of his 2-day working visit to Germany.

[Mia]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:13 am | Permalink | Comments

Friday, December 07, 2007

ALMOST HALF OF MACEDONIANS GIVE BRIBES

National.

44 percent of Macedonians have paid kickbacks to exercise some of their rights, says the 2007 Global Corruption Barometer released by Transparency International.

The Global Barometer is a public survey, in which as many as 63,199 citizens from 60 countries took part this year.

The most corrupted sectors in Macedonia include judiciary, healthcare, education, and the political parties, police officers, MPs and businessmen are not lagging far behind either.

According to the respondents, there is a high level of corruption in Tax Administration, agencies competent for issuing licenses and permissions as well as in the media and the NGO sector.

On the other hand, 61 percent of those polled in Macedonia voiced high level of trust in the government's efforts to fight corruption.

The results of the Global Corruption Barometer showed that 12 percent of the respondents had to give bribery to exercise some of their rights. As much as 70 percent of the respondents from 60 countries consider judiciary and police to be the most corrupted sectors, while more than a half (54%) said they expected the corruption to increase over the next three years.

On the occasion of 9th of December, the International Anti-Corruption Day, Transparency- Zero Corruption presented the Global Corruption Barometer in Skopje.

MD: This is very common in Southern Europe and especially the Balkans. It will be very hard to fight this.

[Makfax]

Posted by Macedonia Daily at 12:17 am | Permalink | Comments