North Macedonia President Walks Girl With Down's Syndrome Allegedly Bullied By Classmates Walks To School

North Macedonia President Stevo Pendarovski recently showed how to raise awareness that "inclusion is a basic principle."

He visited Embla Adema, 11, and her family last Monday in Gostivar, North Macedonia, reported Euronews. After the meeting, Pendarovski held the girl's hand while walking her to her elementary school.

A spokesperson for the President's office told CNN that the child had experienced bullying at her school as a result of Down's Syndrome. It is a genetic condition that causes health problems and learning disabilities. Pendarovski's office said that he "talked to Embla's parents about the challenges she and her family face on a daily basis," and discussed solutions.

Embla's father Ilir Ademi said that the problems began last November. At the time, a group of parents whose children were studying in the same class as Embla, complained to the principle to remove the child from the class, reported Daily Mail.

A statement from the President's office read that he said that the "behavior of those who endanger children's rights is unacceptable, especially when it comes to children with atypical development." The statement further read that people "should not only enjoy the rights they deserve, but also feel equal and welcome in the school desks and schoolyard."

According to the President, the statement said that it is "our obligation, as a state, but also as individuals," and the important element in this common mission is "empathy." The President said it will help kids like Embla, and also help others learn from them "how to sincerely rejoice, share and be in solidarity."

A video was also shared by Pendarovski's office in which he was seen sitting down with Embla's family and showering her with gifts.

He was also seen waving the child off at the school gate as she walked into the building. Pendarovski said in the press note that everyone is "equal in this society." He went to the school to give his support and to "raise awareness that inclusion is a basic principle."

He also said that he "encouraged and supported" Embla's parents in their fight for the protection of the rights of kids like their daughter. According to the President, prejudices in "that context are the main obstacle to building an equal and just society for all."

He also emphasized on the fact that there was "a legal and moral obligation to provide inclusive education, in which the main focus is on developing skills and abilities in children with different developmental processes."