The National chamber of craftsmen of the Republic of Macedonia expressed clear and unequivocal support for the activities of the minister of energy, mining and mineral resources, Sanja Bozhinovska, aimed at institutional protection of the Macedonian ruby ​​- the only natural ruby ​​in Europe, which is mined and processed exclusively in Prilep and Mariovo.
At the meeting with minister Bozhinovska, the president of the Chamber, Agron Fazliji, Sonja Veljanova, member of the supervisory body, the director of the Republican chamber, Jelena Spasova, as well as the long-time promoter of the Macedonian ruby, Deko were present.
The Chamber representatives assessed that the institutional protection initiated by the minister will bring a "strong wind in the back" to Macedonian craftsmanship. They pointed out that unique handmade pieces of jewelry and works of art with Macedonian ruby ​​will represent the country to the world, as an authentic symbol of its natural and cultural heritage.
As a sign of gratitude, minister Bozhinovska received a symbolic gift – a handmade key designed by Sonja Veljanova, which incorporates minerals from the Macedonian soil, called the “Macedonian Key”. This unique gift, made with traditional craft techniques, is a symbol of openness, trust and a common path towards preserving the national heritage.
The craftsmen, during the conversation, emphasized their readiness to actively support the process of protecting and promoting the Macedonian ruby, but also requested support from the Ministry to create conditions for the development of crafts. They emphasized that institutional assistance is needed to ease the administrative and financial barriers they face, including high electricity bills.
Additionally, the need for creating programs that will attract young people to crafts was emphasized, in order to prevent the extinction of this authentic tradition.
Minister Bozhinovska confirmed her commitment to the process of protecting and affirming the Macedonian ruby, but also emphasized the importance of craftsmen as guardians of cultural and natural heritage:
"I believe in their power and talent. We will do everything for Macedonia to preserve its authenticity, support creativity and ensure a future in which tradition lives on through the hands of new generations. The Macedonian ruby ​​is part of the national identity. Together with the craftsmen, we will work to convey its value in each manufactured specimen, so that Macedonia can present itself to the world with an authentic symbol of its beauty and tradition."
With regards,
Ministry of energy, mining and mineral resources
