The President of North Macedonia, Gordana Siljanovska Davkova, expressed gratitude in a press conference for the unwavering support shown by dozens of countries worldwide following the tragedy in a Kočani nightclub, which claimed 59 lives.

She emphasized that those responsible must be held accountable, stating that nothing is more important than the life of a young person.

“We are all in shock; I myself am deeply shaken—as a mother, as a human being, as a president. I still cannot believe that the horrific tragedy in Kočani is a reality.

I do not know what words to use to express my condolences to the parents and loved ones of the victims. Your immeasurable pain is also mine.

This morning, I visited the hospitals. Outside, I was met by the parents of the injured, clinging to hope and faith in the medical staff. Like them, I also believe that they will do not only the possible but even the impossible to help their loved ones.

I know and feel that we are not alone because not only our neighbors but also faraway countries have responded immediately.

The most critically injured are being transported to specialized clinics in Bulgaria, Serbia, Greece, and Turkey to receive the most advanced medical treatment and interventions. Kind-hearted people from across the region, Europe, and the world are with us. We will never forget this act of generosity. We will always be grateful.

Dear and esteemed citizens,

I urge you, guided by humanity and empathy, to unite in this sorrow, aware that death and illness affect us all equally, regardless of our background.

This is not a time for division and conflict, especially when it concerns young people whose lives were extinguished in an instant due to irresponsibility, improvisation, and manipulation.

No establishment should operate without standards and regulations.

No one who bears responsibility should evade justice, the law, and punishment!

Let us not desecrate the innocent sacrifice of the victims but instead unite to support the survivors. Let us never again allow anyone to endanger the lives of innocent people.

We must never sacrifice standards and safety for the profits and wealth of individuals.

Nothing is more valuable than human life, especially that of our youth,” stated President Davkova.