During an interview with Sitel Television on Thursday, the Prime Minister of the Republic of North Macedonia, Hristijan Mickoski, addressed the country’s desire for European Union membership while asserting that he would not accept commitments contradicting his convictions. Mickoski criticized a previous government’s signing of a negotiating framework that stipulated the inclusion of the Bulgarian community in the national Constitution as a prerequisite for negotiations, labeling it a significant historical concession for North Macedonia. The Prime Minister detailed efforts regarding the Minorities Action Plan, stating that the process followed guidance from Brussels and involved a human rights expert.
He attributed ongoing stagnation to Bulgaria, noting that the adoption of this plan is crucial for proceeding with EU negotiations. He also cited Bulgaria as the obstacle to North Macedonia’s application for associate membership in the Three Seas initiative. When discussing signals from Bulgaria following the snap parliamentary elections, Mickoski stated he contacted Rumen Radev, the leader of the winning Progressive Bulgaria coalition, to wish him a successful term and good neighborly relations.
He affirmed North Macedonia’s readiness for dialogue to find a sustainable solution for the country’s integration into the EU. Addressing allegations from opposition leader Venko Filipce that the government was worsening neighborly ties, Mickoski countered by listing infrastructure projects, such as gas and oil pipelines, and the modernization of Corridor 8 connecting to Bulgaria. He asserted that these actions are not provocations but necessary measures to protect the identity and standing of the country.
Topics: #country #macedonia #inclusion
