During an interview for Sitel Television on Thursday, North Macedonia Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski addressed the country’s aspirations for European Union membership. While acknowledging the public desire for EU accession, Mickoski stated he could not commit to accepting any agreement that contradicted his core beliefs. He criticized a previous government’s signing of a negotiating framework that stipulated the constitutional inclusion of the Bulgarian community as a precondition for starting negotiations.
Mickoski highlighted the ongoing necessity of the Minorities Action Plan, noting that its adoption is crucial for the progress of negotiations with the EU. He asserted that the process has been guided by human rights experts and suggested that Bulgaria has obstructed this plan, alongside blocking North Macedonia’s application for associate membership in the Three Seas initiative. Regarding relations with Bulgaria, Mickoski confirmed contacting Rumen Radev, leader of the Progressive Bulgaria coalition, to wish him a successful term and good neighborly relations.
He reiterated the readiness for dialogue to find a sustainable solution for the integration of North Macedonia into the EU, though he noted that this might not be a top priority for the future Bulgarian government. In response to opposition allegations suggesting the government is damaging neighbor relations, Mickoski countered by citing infrastructure projects, including a gas pipeline with Greece, power line upgrades, and the modernization of Corridor 8 connecting to Bulgaria. He stated that these developments represent efforts to strengthen the country’s position and identity, rather than acts of provocation.
Topics: #country #macedonia #inclusion
The emphasis on constitutional changes suggests that national identity remains a significant hurdle for EU accession.
What specific aspects of the proposed constitutional changes regarding Bulgarians do you believe would constitute a “historical capitulation”?