Dutch Tourists Arriving in Ohrid

The first group of 120 tourists from the Netherlands using arrangements of tour-operator "Arke Travel -TUI", arrived in Ohrid on Friday.

A formal event was held at Ohrid-based airport "St. Paul the Apostle", with Economy Minister Valon Saraqini and Netherlands Ambassador to Macedonia Marriet Schuurman greeting the Dutch tourists.

Minister Saraqini wished the guests a warm welcome, saying they should acquaint with Macedonia as much as possible during their stay and convey their impressions to friends at home.

Saraqini told reporters efforts would be implemented this year towards increasing the number of foreign tourists in Macedonia.

"Besides lowering the VAT for tourism services, we have adopted a new rulebook on categorization of capacities, which would significantly improve services offered by hotels. Another measure for attraction of tourists is the subsidizing of low-cost airlines with EUR 4,9 million allocated for the next three years", said the Economy Minister.

According to expectations, nine flights carrying foreign tourists are to land at the Ohrid airport every week.

"Taking into account information we have from tour-operators, we expect about 700 tourists per day from the Benelux countries only. Over 14,000 tourists are expected from the Netherlands this year", emphasized Saraqini while thanking the Dutch Embassy for successful promotion of Macedonia as an attractive tourism destination.

Ambassador Schuurman recalled that such charter flights brought 22,000 Dutch guests to Macedonia last year.

"We are convinced that more tourists will come from the Netherlands this year. I know that Dutch tourists like Macedonia very much, which has been confirmed by the fact that many who came last year are planning to spend their holidays here again this summer", underlined Schuurman.

Warm welcome for ArkeFly and tourists from The Netherlands

The first group of tourists from The Netherlands arrived at Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport, marking the beginning of the tourist season. The guests were welcomed by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of The Netherlands, HE Marriet Schuurman, the Minister of Economy, Mr. Valon Saraqini and the General Manager of TAV Macedonia, Mr. Zoran Krstevski. The welcoming ceremony was organised by TAV Macedonia and the local TUI operator. According to the Macedonian tradition, the guests were offered bread and salt, but also cake and champagne.

Macedonia, Northern Cyprus to bolster cooperation in tourism

Macedonia and Northern Cyprus are taking steps for bolstering the bilateral cooperation in the sphere of tourism. To that effect the two countries have already signed a memo of cooperation, which inter alia, includes organization of charter flights for seven-day packages for Macedonian tourists to visit Northern Cyprus and vice versa.

"We have held talks with the Northern Cyprus Minister of Culture, Environment and Tourism, Unel Ustun, which resulted in signing a memo of cooperation in the sphere of tourism," Economy Minister Valon Saraqini told reporters Wednesday in Skopje at sidelines of "Basic Factors for Receptive Tourism Development", organized by the Macedonian Chamber of Tourism.

Macedonia's Government and Ministry of Economy has already launched numerous activities to promote the country as an attractive tourist destination, Saraqini said.

"Our friend (Turkish actor and Honorary Consul to Northern Cyprus) Necati Sasmaz, who is paying a second visit to Macedonia, has been also promoting Macedonia as a hospitable, friendly and warm country for all tourists," Saraqini said.

14.000 Dutch tourists to visit Macedonia this year

The first group of Dutch tourists will arrive to Ohrid on April 27, Economy Minister Valon Saraqini told reporters on Tuesday.

About 14.000 tourists only from the Netherlands are expected to visit Macedonia this year. Contacts have been also established with tour operators from Israel, Finland and countries form the region, he said.

"We wish for Macedonia to become an attractive tourist destination and have been working hard to that effect. A month ago we have promoted the new national strategy on rural tourism development," Saraqini said after opening the Skopje Travel Market 2012 fair.

The tourism, as fast-growing sector that creates new jobs, will also contribute substantially to the budget foreign currency inflow, he said.

International Tourism Fair opens

Travel agencies and hotel managers from Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Turkey will present their latest and most attractive arrangements at the International Tourism Fair in Skopje from Tuesday till Saturday.

Turkey and Greece are still one of the most popular destinations, while Northern Cyprus is the latest offer.

"Tourism, as a segment of economic development of a country, is a bridge between nations that we have to build to establish direct link between cultures and traditions. It lifts all obstacles, borders and visas," Economy Minister Valon Saraqini said opening the tourism fair.

Macedonia, he added, is increasingly promoted as an attractive tourist destination and is heightening its cooperation in the sphere with all other countries in the region.

"The objective is the Balkan region to be transformed into a global  destination that will welcome tourists over and over again every season. Similarities and differences are our trump card, an additional motivation to pay a visit and to enjoy in their natural and spiritual heritage," the minister stated.

He underlined that government's policies were yielding excellent results - the number of tourists has been increased by 25% in the first two months of 2012.

"The best results in the field of tourism in the past decade have been achieved in 2011 and 2012. The total number of tourists is increased by 10.5%, while accommodations rose by 7.6%. There is also an increase in the number of guests from abroad. Higher indicators are expected in 2012 provided that there is a growth in the overall turnover of tourism," Saraqini said.

The fair is visited by guests from the region, EU countries and representatives of top global manifestations and organisations.

"Guests from the region are verifying our common goal, which is strengthened regional cooperation in all economic aspects to provide sustainable development and high living standards. Guests from EU countries, on the other hand, prove that we are on our chosen path to EU membership," the minister noted.

Bulgaria is a partner country at the International Tourism Fair, which is going to present its famous tourist destinations.

Speaking at the event, Bulgarian Deputy Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism, Ivo Marinov said that Macedonia was an important tourist partner of Bulgaria.

Skopje hosts conference - Basic factors for receptive tourism development

Macedonia square in Skopje.

Economy Minister Valjon Saracini Wednesday will open conference on topic "Basic factors for receptive tourism development" which will be held in Skopje.

The Turkish actor Necati Sasmaz, who starred in the popular television series "Valley of the Wolves" as Polat Alemdar, will be a special guest at the 2nd International Tourism Fair.

Economic Chamber for Tourism of Macedonia organises the conference.

Macedonian companies presented at Stockholm International Bazaar

Macedonian companies have been presented at the traditional 'International Bazaar' in Stockholm, organised by the Macedonian Embassy in Sweden.

More than 2.000 visitors visited Macedonian stand where wide-range of products from "Vipro", "Vitalia" and "Lars" companies were presented. They donated some of their products for this humanitarian event and funds are intended for international project "Save the children Sweden," MIA correspondent reports from Gothenburg.

Vice President of the Swedish Parliament Susanne Eberstein, FM Carl Bildt and his wife MEP Anna Maria Corazza Bildt and President of the Council of the City of Stockholm Margareta Bjork visited Macedonian display. They expressed satisfaction from possibility to buy and to taste Macedonian food products in Sweden.

Macedonian Ambassador to Sweden Kire Ilioski thanked for the continuous Swedish support to Macedonia on political and economic plan. He emphasised that the country will continue with intensified activities for European integration and invited MEP Anna Maria Corazza Bildt to visit the Republic of Macedonia.

NATO grant for reconstruction of Corridor 10 bridges

A NATO grant of EUR 8.6 million will be used for the reconstruction of 13 bridges at road section Katlanovo-Veles, resulting from the memorandum of understanding over the project for overhaul of bridges along Corridor 10, which Minister of Transport and Communications Mile Janakieski and KFOR Chief of Staff, Brigadier-General Rex Spitler signed on Wednesday.

The reconstruction represents the third stage of the project, whereas the Faculty of Civil Engineering is set to develop the draft-plan in the coming three months.

Minister Janakieski said a public call for construction companies is to be announced by September, whereas the contractor should be selected by December.

"Works should start next spring and finish by the end of 2014", added Janakieski.

The two previous stages of the project, worth EUR 22,5 million, encompassed the reconstruction of 51 bridges at road sections Katlanovo-Veles, Skopje-Blace and Demir Kapija-Gevgelija

Macedonian Railways, German consortium Wiebe&Alpine sign agreement on renewal of tracks – part of Corridor X

Skopje, 10 April 2012 (MIA) - Macedonian Public Enterprise for Rail Infrastructure (PERI) and German Consortium 'Wiebe & Alpine' signed Tuesday in Skopje an agreement on revitalization of two tracks along the Corridor X railways line, namely Tabanovce-Karpos-Kumanovo and Miravci-Smokvica sections.

The project covers an upgrading of a total of 25 km-long tracks and will be realized under the sovereign EUR 6,9million-loan of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

The EBRD is supporting further modernisation of the country's transport infrastructure with a total of EUR17.6 million-loan to finance track renewal along the Corridor X railways line in Macedonia. This will take the form of the replacement of wooden with concrete sleepers and the supply of new rails where, applicable, along approximately 50 km of track.

The loan also covers the renewal of the 30km Negotno-Nogaevci track, which wraps up the Corridor X renewal, PERI General Director Irfan Asani said at a press conference.

Corridor X is the main north-south route in Macedonia, providing a connection to Serbia and onwards to Europe in the north, and to Greece in the south. Modernisation of the rail network is one of the country's priorities, given its importance for the promotion of local industry and international trade. lk/15:53

New highway for airport Alexander the Great put into use

"TAV Macedonia" has completed its EUR 100 million investment in Macedonia by putting into use a new interchange for airport "Alexander the Great" on Saturday, thus enabling easier access to the airport.

"We are encircling a significant project that is of enormous benefit for our citizens, since the airport's overhaul has resulted in interest by many low-cost airlines, whereas turnover has increased", said Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski at the event.

Minister of Transport and Communications Mile Janakieski stressed the number of passengers at the Skopje-based airport vastly increased in 2011, whereas the trend has resumed this year.

"The number of passengers in the first quarter of 2012 has increased by 27 percent. I expect that subsidies for airlines will bring the number of passengers up to one million", said Janakieski.

The interchange investment was worth EUR 2,2 million, of which TAV provided EUR 1,5 million, whereas the remaining were allocated by the Government.

"TAV Macedonia" is the concessionaire of the Skopje and Ohrid airports for a period of 20 years

1,900 year old sculpture unearthed in Stobi

The Isis sculpture, the ancient Goddess of fertility is said to be at least 1,900 years old, is over 2m tall and well preserved much to the surprise of experts.

This is the second such sculpture enarthed in Stobi, which proved the believe of Macedonian archeologists that the location was home to worshippers. It took archeologists 4 years to locate the sculpture.

Easter Bright Monday

Skopje, 16 April 2012 (MIA) - Orthodox believers celebrate Easter - the greatest Christian holiday, the day when Jesus Christ proved his divine power and rose from the dead.

Christ's Resurrection was announced at midnight Saturday in all temples of the Macedonian Orthodox Church, whereas Easter liturgies are held Sunday and Monday.

It is the culmination of events during Holy Week beginning with Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday reflects the return of Jesus to Jerusalem. Maundy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper of Christ and Good Friday honours the crucifixion of Jesus. Finally, Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection after his death.

The red colour of the Orthodox Easter egg signifies the blood of Christ, its shell His three-day entombment, and its breaking His Resurrection by which the 'egg of life' brought forth a life, up to then unknown.

The red coloured eggs represent the sealed tomb in which the body of our Saviour was placed after His crucifixion. At first the egg is closed and without life, but after several weeks it is broken open and lets the life come out-the little chick. In the same way, the Lord lay in the closed tomb for three days, but then He broke the seal from inside. He who is the Life and Light could not be sealed, and when the time was fulfilled, He came out; in the same way the chick breaks the shell to come out at the proper time. So the eggs at Easter remind us how Christ Himself resurrected from the dead.

Originally only red dye was used to colour the eggs. Red signifies the sacred blood of Christ, which was shed for our salvation. At the time when Jesus rose from the tomb, Mary Magdalene was crying because she thought that someone had stolen the Body of the Lord. Then she saw Him and talked with Him. The Lord told her to go and tell the Apostles of the Resurrection. She ran through the city shouting, "Christ is risen!" On the way she passed someone carrying a basket with eggs, and she said to him, "Christ is risen!" The man answered, "He will rise when these eggs turn red!" Immediately the eggs turned red, and they were amazed.

When Friday dawned, Christ was sent bound from Caiaphas to Pontius Pilate, who was then Governor of Judea. Pilate interrogated Him in many ways, and once and again acknowledged that He was innocent, but to please the Jews, he later passed the sentence of death against Him. After scourging the Lord of all as though He were a runaway slave, he surrendered Him to be crucified.

Thus the Lord Jesus was handed over to the soldiers, was stripped of His garments, was clothed in a purple robe, was crowned with a wreath of thorns, had a reed placed in His hand as though it were a sceptre, was bowed before in mockery, was spat upon, and was buffeted in the face and on the head. Then they again clothed Him in His own garments, and bearing the cross, He came to Golgotha, a place of condemnation, and there, about the third hour, He was crucified between two thieves.

Although both blasphemed Him at the first, the thief at His right hand repented, and said: "Remember me, O Lord, when Thou comest in Thy Kingdom," to which our Saviour answered, "Today shalt thou be with Me in Paradise." As He hung upon the Cross, He was blasphemed by those who were passing by, was mocked by the high priests, and by the soldiers was given vinegar to drink mixed with gall. About the ninth hour, He cried out with a loud voice, saying, "It is finished." And the Lamb of God "Which taketh away the sin of the world" expired on the day when the moon was full, and at the hour when, according to the Law, was slain the Passover lamb, which was established as a type of Him in the time of Moses.

Even lifeless creation mourned the death of the Master, and it trembled and was altered out of fear. Yet, even though the Maker of creation was already dead, they pierced Him in His immaculate side, and forthwith came there out Blood and Water. Finally, at about the setting of the sun, Joseph of Arimathea came with Nicodemus (both of them had been secret disciples of Jesus), and they took down the all-holy Body of the Teacher from the Cross and anointed it with aromatic spices, and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth. When they had buried Him in a new tomb, they rolled a great stone over its entrance.

Such are the dread and saving sufferings of our Lord Jesus Christ commemorated, and in remembrance of them, we have received the apostolic commandment that a fast be observed every Friday.

The custom arose that people hit their eggs against each other to see whose will crack, whose will open like the tomb. One says, "Christ is risen!" and the other answers, "Truly He is risen!"ik/10:48

Orthodox Christians celebrate Easter

Skopje, 15 April 2012 (MIA) - The Orthodox Christians Sunday celebrate Easter - the greatest Christian holiday, day when day when Jesus Christ proved his divine power and risen from the dead.

Christ's Resurrection was announced at midnight in all temples in Macedonian Orthodox churches and Easter liturgies are being held today.

It is the culmination of events during Holy Week beginning with Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday reflects the return of Jesus to Jerusalem. Maundy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper of Christ and Good Friday honours the crucifixion of Jesus. Finally, Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection after his death.

The red colour of the Orthodox Easter egg signifies the blood of Christ, its shell His three-day entombment, and its breaking His Resurrection by which the 'egg of life' brought forth a life, up to then unknown.

The red coloured eggs represent the sealed tomb in which the body of our Saviour was placed after His crucifixion. At first the egg is closed and without life, but after several weeks it is broken open and lets the life come out-the little chick. In the same way, the Lord lay in the closed tomb for three days, but then He broke the seal from inside. He who is the Life and Light could not be sealed, and when the time was fulfilled, He came out; in the same way the chick breaks the shell to come out at the proper time. So the eggs at Easter remind us how Christ Himself resurrected from the dead.

Originally only red dye was used to colour the eggs. Red signifies the sacred blood of Christ, which was shed for our salvation. At the time when Jesus rose from the tomb, Mary Magdalene was crying because she thought that someone had stolen the Body of the Lord. Then she saw Him and talked with Him. The Lord told her to go and tell the Apostles of the Resurrection. She ran through the city shouting, "Christ is risen!" On the way she passed someone carrying a basket with eggs, and she said to him, "Christ is risen!" The man answered, "He will rise when these eggs turn red!" Immediately the eggs turned red, and they were amazed.

When Friday dawned, Christ was sent bound from Caiaphas to Pontius Pilate, who was then Governor of Judea. Pilate interrogated Him in many ways, and once and again acknowledged that He was innocent, but to please the Jews, he later passed the sentence of death against Him. After scourging the Lord of all as though He were a runaway slave, he surrendered Him to be crucified.

Thus the Lord Jesus was handed over to the soldiers, was stripped of His garments, was clothed in a purple robe, was crowned with a wreath of thorns, had a reed placed in His hand as though it were a sceptre, was bowed before in mockery, was spat upon, and was buffeted in the face and on the head. Then they again clothed Him in His own garments, and bearing the cross, He came to Golgotha, a place of condemnation, and there, about the third hour, He was crucified between two thieves.

Although both blasphemed Him at the first, the thief at His right hand repented, and said: "Remember me, O Lord, when Thou comest in Thy Kingdom," to which our Saviour answered, "Today shalt thou be with Me in Paradise." As He hung upon the Cross, He was blasphemed by those who were passing by, was mocked by the high priests, and by the soldiers was given vinegar to drink mixed with gall. About the ninth hour, He cried out with a loud voice, saying, "It is finished." And the Lamb of God "Which taketh away the sin of the world" expired on the day when the moon was full, and at the hour when, according to the Law, was slain the Passover lamb, which was established as a type of Him in the time of Moses.

Even lifeless creation mourned the death of the Master, and it trembled and was altered out of fear. Yet, even though the Maker of creation was already dead, they pierced Him in His immaculate side, and forthwith came there out Blood and Water. Finally, at about the setting of the sun, Joseph of Arimathea came with Nicodemus (both of them had been secret disciples of Jesus), and they took down the all-holy Body of the Teacher from the Cross and anointed it with aromatic spices, and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth. When they had buried Him in a new tomb, they rolled a great stone over its entrance.

Such are the dread and saving sufferings of our Lord Jesus Christ commemorated, and in remembrance of them, we have received the apostolic commandment that a fast be observed every Friday.

The custom arose that people hit their eggs against each other to see whose will crack, whose will open like the tomb. One says, "Christ is risen!" and the other answers, "Truly He is risen!"sk/11:01

Easter - greatest Christian holiday

Skopje, 14 April 2012 (MIA) - The Orthodox believers will observe Sunday the greatest Christian holiday - the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ - Easter. It is day when Jesus Christ proved his divine power and risen from the dead.

It is the culmination of events during Holy Week beginning with Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday reflects the return of Jesus to Jerusalem. Maundy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper of Christ and Good Friday honours the crucifixion of Jesus. Finally, Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection after his death.

The red colour of the Orthodox Easter egg signifies the blood of Christ, its shell His three-day entombment, and its breaking His Resurrection by which the 'egg of life' brought forth a life, up to then unknown.

The red coloured eggs represent the sealed tomb in which the body of our Saviour was placed after His crucifixion. At first the egg is closed and without life, but after several weeks it is broken open and lets the life come out-the little chick. In the same way, the Lord lay in the closed tomb for three days, but then He broke the seal from inside. He who is the Life and Light could not be sealed, and when the time was fulfilled, He came out; in the same way the chick breaks the shell to come out at the proper time. So the eggs at Easter remind us how Christ Himself resurrected from the dead.

Originally only red dye was used to colour the eggs. Red signifies the sacred blood of Christ, which was shed for our salvation. At the time when Jesus rose from the tomb, Mary Magdalene was crying because she thought that someone had stolen the Body of the Lord. Then she saw Him and talked with Him. The Lord told her to go and tell the Apostles of the Resurrection. She ran through the city shouting, "Christ is risen!" On the way she passed someone carrying a basket with eggs, and she said to him, "Christ is risen!" The man answered, "He will rise when these eggs turn red!" Immediately the eggs turned red, and they were amazed.

When Friday dawned, Christ was sent bound from Caiaphas to Pontius Pilate, who was then Governor of Judea. Pilate interrogated Him in many ways, and once and again acknowledged that He was innocent, but to please the Jews, he later passed the sentence of death against Him. After scourging the Lord of all as though He were a runaway slave, he surrendered Him to be crucified.

Thus the Lord Jesus was handed over to the soldiers, was stripped of His garments, was clothed in a purple robe, was crowned with a wreath of thorns, had a reed placed in His hand as though it were a sceptre, was bowed before in mockery, was spat upon, and was buffeted in the face and on the head. Then they again clothed Him in His own garments, and bearing the cross, He came to Golgotha, a place of condemnation, and there, about the third hour, He was crucified between two thieves.

Although both blasphemed Him at the first, the thief at His right hand repented, and said: "Remember me, O Lord, when Thou comest in Thy Kingdom," to which our Saviour answered, "Today shalt thou be with Me in Paradise." As He hung upon the Cross, He was blasphemed by those who were passing by, was mocked by the high priests, and by the soldiers was given vinegar to drink mixed with gall. About the ninth hour, He cried out with a loud voice, saying, "It is finished." And the Lamb of God "Which taketh away the sin of the world" expired on the day when the moon was full, and at the hour when, according to the Law, was slain the Passover lamb, which was established as a type of Him in the time of Moses.

Even lifeless creation mourned the death of the Master, and it trembled and was altered out of fear. Yet, even though the Maker of creation was already dead, they pierced Him in His immaculate side, and forthwith came there out Blood and Water. Finally, at about the setting of the sun, Joseph of Arimathea came with Nicodemus (both of them had been secret disciples of Jesus), and they took down the all-holy Body of the Teacher from the Cross and anointed it with aromatic spices, and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth. When they had buried Him in a new tomb, they rolled a great stone over its entrance.

Such are the dread and saving sufferings of our Lord Jesus Christ commemorated, and in remembrance of them, we have received the apostolic commandment that a fast be observed every Friday.

The custom arose that people hit their eggs against each other to see whose will crack, whose will open like the tomb. One says, "Christ is risen!" and the other answers, "Truly He is risen!"sk/11:27

Good Friday - a day of mourning in the Christian world

Skopje, 13 April 2012 (MIA) - Good Friday is the day of sufferings and death of the Jesus Christ, which is being observed in all Orthodox churches worldwide.

Good Friday commemorates the moments leading up to and including the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, as told in the New Testament of the Bible. The most common symbols in observing Good Friday are the cross and crucifix and traditions include the venerations of the cross and the preaching or singing of the Passion of Christ.

When Friday dawned, Christ was sent bound from Caiaphas to Pontius Pilate, who was then Governor of Judea. Pilate interrogated Him in many ways, and once and again acknowledged that He was innocent, but to please the Jews, he later passed the sentence of death against Him. After scourging the Lord of all as though He were a runaway slave, he surrendered Him to be crucified.

Thus the Lord Jesus was handed over to the soldiers, was stripped of His garments, was clothed in a purple robe, was crowned with a wreath of thorns, had a reed placed in His hand as though it were a sceptre, was bowed before in mockery, was spat upon, and was buffeted in the face and on the head. Then they again clothed Him in His own garments, and bearing the cross, He came to Golgotha, a place of condemnation, and there, about the third hour, He was crucified between two thieves.

Although both blasphemed Him at the first, the thief at His right hand repented, and said: "Remember me, O Lord, when Thou comest in Thy Kingdom," to which our Saviour answered, "Today shalt thou be with Me in Paradise." As He hung upon the Cross, He was blasphemed by those who were passing by, was mocked by the high priests, and by the soldiers was given vinegar to drink mixed with gall. About the ninth hour, He cried out with a loud voice, saying, "It is finished." And the Lamb of God "Which taketh away the sin of the world" expired on the day when the moon was full, and at the hour when, according to the Law, was slain the Passover lamb, which was established as a type of Him in the time of Moses.

Even lifeless creation mourned the death of the Master, and it trembled and was altered out of fear. Yet, even though the Maker of creation was already dead, they pierced Him in His immaculate side, and forthwith came there out Blood and Water. Finally, at about the setting of the sun, Joseph of Arimathea came with Nicodemus (both of them had been secret disciples of Jesus), and they took down the all-holy Body of the Teacher from the Cross and anointed it with aromatic spices, and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth. When they had buried Him in a new tomb, they rolled a great stone over its entrance.

Such are the dread and saving sufferings of our Lord Jesus Christ commemorated, and in remembrance of them, we have received the apostolic commandment that a fast be observed every Friday.

On Saturday at midnight, priests in all Macedonian Orthodox Churches in the country and abroad will announce the news on Christ's resurrection. lk/10:25

Easter celebrations begin

Skopje, 12 April 2012 (MIA) - The Easter, the greatest Christian holiday, the celebration of victory over death, will be observed on Sunday. The day when Jesus Christ proved his divine power and risen from the dead.

Easter is an important Christian holiday. It is the culmination of events during Holy Week beginning with Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday reflects the return of Jesus to Jerusalem. Maundy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper of Christ and Good Friday honours the crucifixion of Jesus. Finally, Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection after his death.

On Holy Thursday before Easter, before sunrise, first three eggs are dyed in red colour, and the other eggs are dyed the following day. The first egg dyed before sunrise is used for giving a blessing from God by passing over the children's faces by the oldest member of the family.

The red coloured eggs represent the sealed tomb in which the body of our Saviour was placed after His crucifixion. At first the egg is closed and without life, but after several weeks it is broken open and lets the life come out-the little chick. In the same way, the Lord lay in the closed tomb for three days, but then He broke the seal from inside. He who is the Life and Light could not be sealed, and when the time was fulfilled, He came out; in the same way the chick breaks the shell to come out at the proper time. So the eggs at Easter remind us how Christ Himself resurrected from the dead.

Originally only red dye was used to colour the eggs. Red signifies the sacred blood of Christ, which was shed for our salvation. At the time when Jesus rose from the tomb, Mary Magdalene was crying because she thought that someone had stolen the Body of the Lord. Then she saw Him and talked with Him. The Lord told her to go and tell the Apostles of the Resurrection. She ran through the city shouting, "Christ is risen!" On the way she passed someone carrying a basket with eggs, and she said to him, "Christ is risen!" The man answered, "He will rise when these eggs turn red!" Immediately the eggs turned red, and they were amazed.

The Holy Friday is the day of sufferings and death of the Jesus Christ, which will be observed in all temples in orthodox churches in Macedonia and in the world.

When Friday dawned, Christ was sent bound from Caiaphas to Pontius Pilate, who was then Governor of Judea. Pilate interrogated Him in many ways, and once and again acknowledged that He was innocent, but to please the Jews, he later passed the sentence of death against Him. After scourging the Lord of all as though He were a runaway slave, he surrendered Him to be crucified.

Thus the Lord Jesus was handed over to the soldiers, was stripped of His garments, was clothed in a purple robe, was crowned with a wreath of thorns, had a reed placed in His hand as though it were a sceptre, was bowed before in mockery, was spat upon, and was buffeted in the face and on the head. Then they again clothed Him in His own garments, and bearing the cross, He came to Golgotha, a place of condemnation, and there, about the third hour, He was crucified between two thieves.

Although both blasphemed Him at the first, the thief at His right hand repented, and said: "Remember me, O Lord, when Thou comest in Thy Kingdom," to which our Saviour answered, "Today shalt thou be with Me in Paradise." As He hung upon the Cross, He was blasphemed by those who were passing by, was mocked by the high priests, and by the soldiers was given vinegar to drink mixed with gall. About the ninth hour, He cried out with a loud voice, saying, "It is finished." And the Lamb of God "Which taketh away the sin of the world" expired on the day when the moon was full, and at the hour when, according to the Law, was slain the Passover lamb, which was established as a type of Him in the time of Moses.

Even lifeless creation mourned the death of the Master, and it trembled and was altered out of fear. Yet, even though the Maker of creation was already dead, they pierced Him in His immaculate side, and forthwith came there out Blood and Water. Finally, at about the setting of the sun, Joseph of Arimathea came with Nicodemus (both of them had been secret disciples of Jesus), and they took down the all-holy Body of the Teacher from the Cross and anointed it with aromatic spices, and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth. When they had buried Him in a new tomb, they rolled a great stone over its entrance.

Such are the dread and saving sufferings of our Lord Jesus Christ commemorated, and in remembrance of them, we have received the apostolic commandment that a fast be observed every Friday. sk/9:16

International congress on traveller Evliya Celebi

Skopje, 17 April 2012 (MIA) - About 80 participants from Macedonia, Turkey and other Balkan countries take part April 17-20 at the international congress dedicated to the 400. anniversary from the birth of Ottoman traveler Evliya Celebi. The congress is titled "Balkans of Evliya Celebi", hosted by the Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts (MANU).

President Gjorge Ivanov addressed Tuesday the opening of the congress, which is held under his auspices, referring to the life and work of Evliya Celebi.

"His views, which are at times burdened by prejudice, still shed light on the Ottoman view of the Balkans in the 17. century. During his journeys, Celebi met with non-Muslim and non-Ottoman values and concepts, ideas and customs, which he partially presented in his notes. Thus, the traveller has contributed to the building of understanding among nations, cultures and civilizations", stressed Ivanov.

According to him, Celebi's records are significant sources not only for history and geography, but also for ethnography and anthropology, economy and architecture on the Balkans, in Macedonia, in Skopje.

"What would Evliya Celebi say about the present Balkans? The Balkans, which following the turbulent 1990s, is still divided and closed, a Balkans where fear and prejudice created by the enclosed space still exist", stressed President Ivanov.

He said if Celebi wrote about the Balkans of today, there would be no mention of the beauties of cities and nature, but the frustrations from the long lines at border crossings, numerous forms and conditions that need to be met.

"Instead of the kindness and hospitality of people, he would talk about the efforts of young generations to leave their hearths for the synonym of open space - Europe", added Ivanov.

He underlined that the new times required a new Evliya Celebi, who could successfully fulfill his role only in conditions of open space.

The congress is organized by MANU and the Civilization Studies Center - MEDAM within University Bahcesehir from Turkey, which has developed comprehensive project "Traveller of Civilization, Evliya Celebi", including international exhibitions, debates, thematic film, children's movie, atlas of Evliya Celebi, books and brochures in different languages for promotion of cities, countries and historic places visited by Evliya Celebi.

Moreover, exhibition "An Ottoman Traveller" will open in MANU today.

NATO grant for reconstruction of Corridor 10 bridges

A NATO grant of EUR 8.6 million will be used for the reconstruction of 13 bridges at road section Katlanovo-Veles, resulting from the memorandum of understanding over the project for overhaul of bridges along Corridor 10, which Minister of Transport and Communications Mile Janakieski and KFOR Chief of Staff, Brigadier-General Rex Spitler signed on Wednesday. The reconstruction represents the third stage of the project, whereas the Faculty of Civil Engineering is set to develop the draft-plan in the coming three months. Minister Janakieski said a public call for construction companies is to be announced by September, whereas the contractor should be selected by December. "Works should start next spring and finish by the end of 2014", added Janakieski. The two previous stages of the project, worth EUR 22,5 million, encompassed the reconstruction of 51 bridges at road sections Katlanovo-Veles, Skopje-Blace and Demir Kapija-Gevgelija

Imperial Tobacco Plans to Invest 23 Mln Euro in Macedonian Unit

Britain's Imperial Tobacco plans to invest 23 million euro ($30 million) in its Macedonian unit this year, the Skopje-based Economic Chamber said on Tuesday.

The investment is aimed at providing new manufacturing and packaging equipment that will increase the annual output of the Macedonian unit to 10 billion from six billion cigarettes, the Economic Chamber said in a statement quoting Richard Parratt, the general director of Skopje-based Imperial Tobacco TKS.

Russian Co. to invest 6m Euros in Eastern Macedonia

Russian company will invest EUR 6 million for the construction of a facility for processing of meat industry waste in Macedonia's east, said Vice Premier and Finance Minister Zoran Stavreski after the completion of the country's economic presentation in Russia.

"As a result of the contacts we had here with the investor, as well as previous activities by the Macedonian promoter in Moscow, we can say with high degree of certainty that a fresh Russian investment is pending in Macedonia", said Stavreski.

The plant will process meat industry waste, which is to be used for medical and other purposes following the bio-technological process.

 According to Stavreski, the investor is set to come to Macedonia by the end of April and register a firm.

"Besides the importance of the investment, the most significant thing is the opening of new jobs, thus mitigating the unemployment problem in Macedonia's east", underlined the FinMin.

Ohrid residents surprised by April Snow

Macedonia is a brand, its unique value needs to be defined, Laurencic tells MIA

Skopje, 8 April 2012 (MIA) - It could be said that Macedonia is a brand, however it needs to be completely defined in order to identify the country's uniqueness. The process of branding is long and it takes years, but the hardest part comes after you've created the brand i.e. to maintain it, to meet expectations, says the CEO and creative director of advertising agency "Idea Plus Communications", Ivo Laurencic in an interview with MIA.

Ivo Laurencic is the man responsible for laying the foundations of advertising in Macedonia in the early 1990s.

"Yes, it could be said that Macedonia is a brand, but it's not defined. What's the uniqueness in brand's communication - cultural heritage, food or maybe wine and we can also mention handball and basketball recently. What identifies Macedonia the best, what makes her special. The brand cannot be everything, it must be focused," says the advertising guru.

Laurencic - one of the pioneers of advertising not only in Macedonia, but also in the region and beyond, deems that a great progress has been made in Macedonia in the field of communications in general, not only in marketing and advertising, since its early days till now.

Macedonia, he says, stands side by side with neighbouring countries and others all around the world according the the quality and production of advertisements. There are excellent campaigns in the world, but there are also average and/or less than average campaigns. "The situation is the same in Macedonia."

"Let's not forget, Macedonia is a small market, global or regional campaigns are adapted quite often. This means that there is a limited space for creative and production achievements of our teams. And even in such circumstances, the results are great. Macedonia is not lagging behind neither in production nor in technical aspect. However, people must be trained, to be further educated. Success doesn't come on its own, he stresses.

Despite being an advertising mastermind, film lies in Laurencic's heart. Since he knows the cinematic expression in creating a successful ad i.e. an advertising campaign as an separate aesthetic form, it allows him to think in big pictures.

Earlier this year, he received a life achievement award by Buba Mara Radio on its 15th jubilee. "The award means a lot to me, because my work in this country was recognised, beyond my commercial works," he notes.

Asked about his future challenges, Laurencic says he would love to brand the Macedonian pepper or perhaps to pen a book titled Skopje Downtown... "Commitment to and persistence in what you do," he says when asked to reveal life's greatest wisdom.

Source: http://www.mia.com.mk/default.aspx?mId=38&vId=92883860&lId=2&title=MACEDONIA+-+MISCELLANEOUS

Russian Investors interested in Mak Agriculture Centers

Russian investors from the region of Rostov are interested in constructing purchasing centers for agricultural products in Macedonia, for Macedonian fruit and vegetables and other agricultural produces.

This was stated by Vice PM and Minister of Finance Zoran Stavreski, who presented on Monday Macedonia's investment opportunities before entrepreneurs in the region of Rostov.

"This is our first day in the Rostov region in Russia. We are not here by chance, because we believe that the Moscow region has been explored significantly. It was decided a presentation of Macedonia's investment opportunities to be made inside Russia. The first day of our Russia visit we are in the Rostov region, one of the most developed regions in the Russian Federation. It was interesting to present what Macedonia is offering to Russian businessmen with respect to foreign investments regarding projects related to energy, real estates, agriculture and so on," Minister Stavreski stated after the presentation at the Rostov Region Chamber of Trade, made up of 650 enterprises.

He noted most businessmen from the region showed interest in boosting cooperation in connection to purchasing centers for agricultural produces. Negotiations are expected to continue.

"I think that Macedonia's offer of fruit, vegetables and other agricultural products is quite interesting. The region is a big market and Macedonia has the opportunity to increase its export of agricultural products. The favourable results yielded in the past couple of years could be improved with a direct foreign investment by opening a purchasing center by Russian investors in Macedonia," stated Stavreski.

Russia is a new interesting market for Macedonian companies, he added.

The government delegation, which also includes Minister for Foreign Investments Bill Pavleski and director of the Directorate for Technological and Industrial Zones (TIRZ), Viktor Miz, are set to visit the region of Krasnodar and Soci.

Minister Bill Pavleski presented projects in the field of agriculture, tourism and construction before interested investors, whereas Mizo spoke about projects related to energy, mineral resources and conditions offered in the technological and industrial zones,

The Rostov region is in southwestern Russia and has a population of 4.3 million inhabitants. It is one of the most developed and richest federal subjects in Russia.

The Republic of Macedonia and the Russian Federation are fostering an intensive economic cooperation. Trade exchange is a dominant form of cooperation standing at over US$700 million in 2011. Most importantly, Macedonian export to Russia marks a record-breaking increase of 140%, while Russia's export to Macedonia is nearly 28.7%.

The two countries in order to advance the overall trade relations signed in 1993 an agreement on trade and economic cooperation between the governments of Macedonia and Russia.

Russian investments in Macedonia last year stand at 5.19 million euros. Given the economic and investing potential of Macedonia, the scope of foreign direct investments is considered small. It is expected Russia to launch an investment cycle in Macedonia, especially in the energy sector.

Russian pharmaceutical holding "Protek Group" has started constructing a plant in Skopje and is planned to be completed in 2015. "Lukoil" oil company is already expanding its businesses across Macedonia.

Miracle in Skopje church attracts thousands

Saint Demetrius church, Skopje.

Followers from all over Macedonia come to Skopje-based church "St. Dimitrija", waiting in lines to witness the phenomenon of fresco self-cleansing.

Church priests say this is a miracle, meaning people should turn towards God more often.

The cleansing phenomenon began at weekend's holiday Cvetnici (Palm Sunday) on the fresco at the church's entrance, followed by other frescoes inside.

According to clergymen, a similar phenomenon was registered only in Russia in the 1930s, when natural colors of frescoes and icons began to re-emerge in one church.

Natural colors of the frescoes in the Skopje church re-emerge at the aureoles of saints, but also on portion of their garments painted in gold.

Some of the icons in church "St. Dimitrija" are 100 years old, whereas others were painted after the 1963 Skopje earthquake.

Catholic believers celebrate Easter in Macedonia

Skopje, 8 April 2012 (MIA) - Bishop of Skopje and Apostolic Exarch of Macedonia, Monsignor Kiro Stojanov at an Easter liturgy held last night in the Skopje catholic church read an Easter message.

"Dear brothers and sisters - the celebration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ is the main event in the church year. For us, the believers, every holiday particularly the Easter holidays are not only a memory, they are occurring events of salvation."

"Easter is a celebration following the long road of soul-searching and prayers, lent and repentance. However, this year's Easter needs to be observed in honor of the experienced faith. The modern world is 'buried' in information, which makes it difficult for us to recognise the truth. The abundance of words and ideas suffocate our soul preventing it to focus on the true values. The freedom of the soul needs to be saved," the Bishop of Skopje said.

"I wish all of you happy and blessed Easter - Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen", Bishop Kiro Stojanov said in his message amongst other things. ba/12:17

Carlos Slim delighted with Macedonia visit

I'm delighted at the beauties of the region, the hospitality of the people of Macedonia wherever I had the chance to make contacts in this very short period of time, Mexican businessman Carlos Slim told a press conference on Monday after the IT conference was closed in Ohrid."I didn't have much time for more sightseeing... I knew very little about Macedonia, I knew something about Alexander the Great and the history of the country, but you have to excuse me for my modest knowledge. Only two days ago I found out that Mother Teresa was born here, Slim said adding he would visit Macedonia again as soon as he had the chance.

Moreover, the Mexican billionaire welcomed the commitment of the government in enabling development of the country through various activities.

Slim during his three-day stay in Macedonia will tour the most famous landmarks in Ohrid.

The richest man in the world co-chaired a meeting of the Broadband Commission for Digital Development, which was convened for the first time outside of its headquarters in Geneva, New York and Paris.

Slims visit puts Macedonia on map of attractive destinations for investing

A visit of Carlos Slim, the richest businessman in the world, to Macedonia once again puts the country on the map of attractive destinations for investments, Vice-Premier and FinMin Zoran Stavreski told reporters Sunday after a meeting of the Mexican telecommunications magnate with the Government's economic team, led by Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski.

Slim's praising of the Government's economic policy, results for the last few years, including the Doing Business ranking of Macedonia as one of the best reformers for six years in  row and its most attractive tax package in Europe, gives an impetus to our Cabinet, Stavreski said.

"For the first time in the last 20 years the richest businessman in the world has been visiting Macedonia. It is yet another proof that our activities in the economic sphere - improving of the business climate for both domestic and foreign investors - have not passed unnoticed. On the contrary, the most powerful international investors and businessmen frequently visit Macedonia, thus contributing to spreading the story about the country as a solid destination for investments," Stavreski said.

Today's meeting also addressed potential projects the Government was offering to foreign investors in the spheres of energy, real estate, mining and infrastructure.

Slim commended Macedonia's business climate, tax policy, Stavreski said. He considers that Macedonia may expect larger inflow of investments thanking to its economic polices, Stavreski added.

He said that Slim expressed greatest interest in several projects related to mining, energy and privatization of state companies.

Slim, whose wealth is estimated at US$69 billion according to Forbes magazine, is going to attend an IT conference in Ohrid on Monday. The Mexican businessman is expected to chair a meeting of the Broadband Commission for Digital Development, which has been formed by the International Telecommunication Union and UNESCO.

The Ohrid event will be also attended by a top government delegation, led by PM Gruevski, who is scheduled to deliver an address at the conference.

The Commission will be convened for the first time outside the UN offices in Geneva, Paris or New York. The meeting will also include co-chair, Rwanda's President Paul Kagame, as well as commission members, including CEOs of world's largest IT companies such as Intel, Ericsson, Telefonica, Cisco, Alcatel-Lucent, Huawei Technologies etc.