First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Affairs, Bekim Sali, addressed the conference with social partners and civil society organisations from North Macedonia, organised by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and its Western Balkans Follow-up Committee, held at Europe House in Skopje.
In his address, Minister Sali emphasized that European integration is not only a governmental process, but a societal project requiring active involvement of civil society, trade unions, employers’ organisations and the business community.
“Organised civil society should not be an observer, but a co-creator of reforms. The credibility of enlargement depends on real, measurable and inclusive reforms,” Sali stated.
He underlined that effective social dialogue is a pillar of democratic maturity and a prerequisite for economic stability and EU integration. He also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting civic space, media pluralism and combating disinformation.
The Minister stressed that the Reform Agenda under the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans presents an opportunity to link reforms with tangible benefits for citizens, while noting that success depends on shared ownership and partnership at all levels.
The conference addressed the role of civil society in accession negotiations, the state of social dialogue, as well as issues related to freedom of expression and countering disinformation.
The Government of the Republic of North Macedonia remains fully committed to its European path, reform implementation and constructive dialogue with all societal stakeholders.
