For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
February 27, 2004

Statement by the President

Laura and I are saddened by the death of President Boris Trajkovski of Macedonia -- a distinguished leader and a great friend of the United States. On behalf of the American people, I extend condolences to President Trajkovski's family and to the people of Macedonia.

President Trajkovski showed extraordinary courage in leading his country from the brink of civil conflict to peace by signing the Ohrid Framework Agreement. The United States strongly supports President Trajkovski's vision of a multi-ethnic, democratic Macedonia, at peace with itself and its neighbors, and on the path to full membership in the Trans-Atlantic community.

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