First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Affairs Bekim Sali met with the Joint Committee on European Affairs of the Irish Parliament and its Chair, Barry Ward, as part of his official visit to Ireland.
The meeting focused on North Macedonia’s European Union accession process, the priorities of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU, implementation of the Reform Agenda and opportunities for gradual integration ahead of full membership.
Minister Sali welcomed Ireland’s commitment to keeping enlargement high on the European agenda, emphasising that the process must remain merit-based, predictable and linked to measurable results. He noted that reforms in candidate countries and the EU’s own institutional preparations should advance in parallel.
The discussion covered the rule of law, stronger public administration and preparation of strategic documents for the accession negotiations. The Minister reaffirmed the commitment to the Reform Agenda and Growth Plan, alongside the importance of technical assistance and exchanges with EU Member State administrations.
As an example of tangible benefits from gradual integration, the Minister highlighted participation in the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA). According to the meeting briefing, by September 2026 more than 581,000 transactions worth approximately €11 billion had been processed, with estimated savings exceeding €5 million.
The parties also discussed prospects for lower roaming charges with the EU, digital cooperation and the need for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework to provide sustained support for reforms and investment in candidate countries.
Minister Sali underlined North Macedonia’s continued commitment to dialogue on outstanding issues and to advancing its European path through reform, cooperation and tangible benefits for citizens and businesses.
