The First Deputy Prime Minister of the Government and Minister for European Affairs, Bekim Sali, welcomed the debate in the European Parliament following the Report on North Macedonia, assessing that the messages conveyed by the Members of the European Parliament represent strong confirmation of the country’s European perspective and an additional incentive to continue the reform process.
Within the framework of the debate, the European Parliament’s rapporteur for North Macedonia, Thomas Waitz, sent encouraging messages regarding the country’s European perspective, emphasizing that the country has the capacity and potential to be part of the next wave of enlargement of the European Union.
“This is a significant message that comes at an important moment for our country. The fact that the European Parliament recognizes North Macedonia’s progress and highlights the possibility for the country to become the next member of the European Union is an encouragement for all institutions to continue reforms at an even stronger pace. Europe sees North Macedonia as part of the European family, and our obligation is to justify that trust through results,” Sali stated.
He emphasized that the Government remains fully committed to implementing reforms in the rule of law, public administration, economic development, and the strengthening of democratic institutions, as key prerequisites for progress in the European integration process.
“Membership in the European Union is not only a foreign policy goal, but a strategic choice that brings stronger institutions, economic development, and more opportunities for citizens. Our European perspective is clear and achievable. Today’s debate in the European Parliament is confirmation that North Macedonia’s place is in the European Union. It is our responsibility, through reforms, results, and political maturity, to use this momentum and bring the country closer to full membership in the European family,” Sali emphasized.
Regarding all issues discussed within the framework of the Report, Sali stressed that North Macedonia remains committed to European values, good-neighborly relations, and constructive dialogue, in accordance with the Negotiating Framework and the principles of the European Union.