The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Affairs, Bekim Sali, held a meeting today with Sigrid Brettel, Head of Unit at the Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood (DG ENEST) of the European Commission.
The meeting focused on the progress in the implementation of the Reform Agenda within the framework of the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, as well as the ongoing coordination with the European Commission regarding the fulfilment of reform steps.
Minister Sali informed that the institutions continue to work intensively on delivering the reform commitments and expressed expectations for positive progress regarding the steps linked to the third request for the release of funds. He emphasized that the Government is fully aware that the coming period is critical for the implementation of reforms, particularly in the context of the deadlines and the steps currently under the grace period until June 2026.
The meeting also welcomed the continuation of regular coordination with the services of the European Commission, including the monthly coordination meetings and monitoring sessions, which are important for ensuring timely fulfilment of obligations and preventing potential decommitment of funds.
The interlocutors also discussed the progress in preparing the roadmaps related to the rule of law, public administration and functioning of democratic institutions, as well as the Action Plan on the rights of communities. It was noted that after receiving expert feedback and completing the public consultations, the documents will be finalized and submitted to the Government for adoption.
During the discussion, issues related to the alignment of national legislation with EU acquis were also addressed, including legal solutions in the areas of judiciary and electronic communications, as well as the progress in preparations for the “Roam Like at Home” initiative.
Both sides emphasized the importance of continuing the close cooperation between the institutions of North Macedonia and the European Commission in order to maintain the reform momentum and advance the European integration process.
