Keep working on maintaining ties with Macedonia. Maintain tradition and the Macedonian language, continue with your efforts to preserve and promote our national and cultural identity, Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski told Macedonian emigrants in Los Angeles.

PM Gruevski urged emigrants to be united, help close ones in Macedonia, since their assistance is significant for everyone in the country.

"You will be stronger only through unity. Maintain tradition and the Macedonian language, nurture Macedonian songs, folklore and customs. Come to Macedonia as much as you can, there are beautiful things to see there", he added.

Gruevski referred to recent achievements, saying Macedonia is the country with lowest costs for business start-up in Europe, an excellent business destination due to low taxes, whereas free economic zones offer favorable conditions for companies.

He said the Government is stimulating young people to educate themselves.

"We are investing in the people's minds, in their knowledge, their personal capacity, which makes the country stronger", emphasized Gruevski.

With regards to the country's strategic goals - EU and NATO integration - the PM said the Government has implemented all required reforms, but the Alliance invitation and the start of EU accession talks have been delayed due to the name issue with Greece.

"The visa-free regime was introduced in 2009, followed by the European Commission recommendation for start of EU accession negotiations. Since, we have annually received recommendations for the beginning of accession talks, but this process, as well as the NATO invitation, has been delayed due to the problem you are all familiar with", Gruevski told emigrants.

He said the Government would not give up on these strategic goals, adding they should use caution in maintaining the Macedonian identity, culture and language.

"We will continue with our efforts to seek for a solution. We want to find a solution to the problem with the southern neighbor. We want to have normal relations and join NATO and EU. However, we are very cautious with regards to this significant issue for us Macedonians, but also committed to the process", said PM Gruevski.

During the United States visit, the Government delegation presented Macedonia's investment benefits before business communities in Los Angeles, Detroit and Houston.