First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of European Affairs Bekim Sali met with Heleen Bakker, Deputy Minister for European Union Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Discussions focused on North Macedonia’s accession to the European Union, reform implementation and opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation.
Sali expressed appreciation for the Netherlands’ continued support for the country’s European perspective and its contribution to strengthening the rule of law, democratic institutions and administrative capacities. He highlighted the importance of cooperation through MATRA, the Dutch programme for societal transformation, particularly in the area of the rule of law, as well as exchanges of expertise between institutions.
The Minister stressed that the accession process should be fair, predictable and merit-based, with clear criteria that recognise reforms and concrete results.
During the meeting, Sali presented progress in implementing the Reform Agenda and the priorities of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. He emphasised that gradual integration should deliver tangible benefits for citizens and businesses and help accelerate reforms towards full membership.
The meeting also addressed opportunities for further cooperation in strengthening institutions, exchanging experience and developing joint projects.
