Today, the Ministry of European Affairs held a panel discussion on the topic "Expansion Methodology: Exchange of views on the concept of gradual integration", organized by the Embassy of the French Republic in the Republic of Northern Macedonia and the Jacques Delors Institute, in cooperation with the Ministry of European Affairs of Northern Macedonia.
The event was opened with greetings from the Minister of European Affairs, Orhan Murtezani and French Ambassador Christophe Le Rigolaire. In his presentation, Minister Murtezani emphasized the importance of gradual integration as a strategic approach that brings concrete benefits to the candidate countries even during the accession process. He emphasized that the new Expansion Methodology and Growth Plan for the Western Balkans strengthen the dynamics of the accession process through clear and structured steps. He stressed that the gradual integration represents an essential opportunity to strengthen the political and economic ties between the European Union and the candidate countries.
Murtezani also pointed out that regional cooperation is a key element of gradual integration, stressing the role of the Berlin process in improving infrastructure, trade and energy transition. He emphasized that recent geopolitical developments reinforce the need for faster and more substantial integration of the Western Balkans into the EU. "Recent geopolitical developments, especially the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have further strengthened the strategic importance of EU expansion, emphasizing the need for a united and stable Europe," concluded Murtezani.
After the introductory presentations, a panel discussion followed with the participation of experts from the field of European integration, who analyzed the application of gradual integration in the wider context of European enlargement.
In the following, follow the integral speech of Minister Murtezani:
Your Excellency, Ambassador Le Rigoler, respect the panelists, respect your colleagues and honor your guests,
With great pleasure, I welcome you to this useful discussion on the topic "Methodology for expansion: Exchange of views on the concept of gradual integration". Today's discussion is of great importance because it represents an opportunity to explore key developments in the European Union's approach to enlargement, a process that directly affects the Western Balkans and the future of the region in the European Union. At the very beginning, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Embassy of France and the Jacques Delors Institute for their cooperation with the Ministry of European Affairs of Northern Macedonia in organizing this event.
The process of enlargement of the European Union underwent significant changes, especially in its approach to the integration of new member countries. The concept of gradual integration, introduced by the new expansion methodology, aims to make the EU accession process more dynamic, transparent and substantial for the candidate countries. This approach, reflected in the negotiating framework and Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, underlines the EU's commitment to a clear and structured path to progress.
The gradual integration is not only procedurally adjusted; It is a pledge to foster deeper political and economic ties between the EU and the post-graduate countries. Linking integration with specific reforms ensures that candidate countries not only adopt EU standards, but contribute to the collective strengthening of the Union. The growth plan, as part of the revised methodology, allows candidate countries early access to certain EU policies and benefits, which serves as an incentive to achieve sustainable reform and shows that progress has led to real improvements for citizens.
For North Macedonia, this model allows access to EU resources and programs, even as we continue to implement the necessary reforms. It reflected the EU's will to recognize and reward efforts, while ensuring that they lead to sustainable change. A particularly important example is the inclusion of candidate countries in EU programs before full membership, as well as participation in Horizon Europe and Erasmus+, which encourages deeper cooperation with direct benefits for our citizens and the economy.
Regional cooperation is another element of vital importance for gradual integration. Initiatives such as the Berlin Process show how the Western Balkans deal with common challenges, including infrastructure development, trade facilitation and energy transition. With the support of the EU for such cooperation, it is emphasized that the gradual integration is of mutual benefit to the Union and to the candidate countries.
However, the path to EU membership is not without challenges. Integration speed depends on political will, institutional capacity and compliance with EU criteria. Неодамнешний геополитички для желајања, especially the Russian invasion
As payment for revenues and fiscal autonomy, municipalities will have a greater opportunity to invest in projects that are a priority for the local community, according to the needs of its citizens.
This workshop aims to achieve several key outcomes: to raise awareness of the role of local authorities in reforms, to improve understanding of available support and to strengthen dialogue between local and national authorities.
Today's event is an opportunity to exchange ideas and strengthen our partnerships. We invite you to an open and constructive discussion. Let this workshop be the place where new ideas will grow and our commitment to a prosperous future for all citizens will be strengthened.
I believe that through joint work, dedication and vision, we can realize our goals. Thank you for your attention and I wish you success and fruitful work at today's workshop.
Thank you.
