Many thanks to Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Timco Mucunski for hosting this important session and for fostering a meaningful dialogue on the role of democracy, cultural diplomacy, and soft power in shaping a more connected and resilient world.
Special thanks to Nicole Varnes, ChargĂ© d’Affaires of the U.S Embassy in Skopje for her valuable insights and perspectives.
Many thanks to Professor Vasko Naumovski for expertly moderating the discussion, to Mark C. Donfried , Director of the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD), for his contributions, and to Duke Bojadziev for enriching the event with his unique perspective.
At a time of profound global change, open dialogue, democratic values, and cultural exchange remain essential tools for building trust, strengthening cooperation, and advancing a more stable and sustainable future.

