The Minister of European Affairs, Orhan Murtezani, met today in Kiev with the Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Minister of Justice and Chief Negotiator for Ukraine’s EU Membership, Olga Stefanyshyna. The focus of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between North Macedonia and Ukraine on issues related to integration into the European Union, for which the Chief Negotiators with the EU, Murtezani and Stefanyshyna, were appointed as signatories on behalf of the Governments of the two countries.
The importance of European integration as a strategic priority for both countries was emphasized at the meeting. Minister Murtezani emphasized that the enlargement process must remain credible and merit-based in order to ensure stability and progress.
“North Macedonia supports Ukraine on its path to the European Union, and this visit confirms our common aspiration for European values. The process of accession to the European Union should not be exclusive, but inclusive and merit-based, providing both Ukraine and the Western Balkan countries with a fair chance for progress. Unity and solidarity between our peoples are key to building a strong and united Europe,” MEP Murtezani emphasized.
The interlocutors concluded that the Memorandum of Understanding is a significant step in building closer cooperation between the two countries, with the aim of exchanging knowledge and experiences that will contribute to a more successful achievement of the common goals of membership in the European Union. Minister Murtezani expressed North Macedonia’s readiness to share its experience of the accession process with Ukraine, emphasizing that the exchange of good practices will be of exceptional importance. The Memorandum covers the exchange of experiences and knowledge in various areas, including legislation, judicial reforms, the fight against corruption and organized crime, as well as the promotion of European values. The parties commit to cooperate in improving institutional capacities, as well as to exchange expertise in fulfilling the criteria for EU membership. The memorandum also envisages the organization of joint events, trainings and initiatives to support the European integration of Ukraine and North Macedonia.
Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine Stefanishina expressed gratitude for the continued support from North Macedonia, noting that mutual cooperation is of essential importance for the European perspective of both countries. She stressed that Ukraine views North Macedonia as a partner and friend in the European integration process.
The meeting also discussed the possibilities for deepening regional cooperation through joint projects and initiatives, especially in areas where close cooperation could strengthen the efforts of both countries to join the Union. Murtezani and Stefanishina agreed that a unified approach to addressing common challenges and seizing the opportunities offered by the EU integration process is of crucial value for both Ukraine and North Macedonia. They underlined their mutual commitment to coordinated action in promoting stability, growth and European values in the region.
