Temelkovski's Macedonia motion a success

Oak Ridges - Markham MP Lui Temelkovski and Macedonian-Canadians across the country are celebrating Canada's recognition of the constitutional name of the Republic of Macedonia.

Temelkovski introduced a bill, entitled An Act to recognize the Republic of Macedonia, to the House of Commons in May. Canada's prior decision to recognize the country as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia had been a source of dismay for many in Canada's Macedonian community.

Lobbying efforts to sway the Canadian position gained momentum after the MP's motion went before Parliament.

"This decision is good news for the whole Macedonian-Canadian community," Temelkovski said. "The various community groups were instrumental in bringing about this policy change."

He also underscored that this is good news for Canada as a whole. "Canada has a history of fostering mutual respect among nations, and this decision follows in that tradition," he commented.

After months of petitioning and collecting signatures in favour of the bill, Temelkovski was happy to see the community's efforts pay off.

"This is an important moment for Macedonian- Canadians, and they deserve a big 'thank you' for all their hard work," he added.