Annalena Baerbock highlights Western Balkans’ EU accession as key to peace

The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of the Republic of North Macedonia, Zoran Dimitrovski, held a meeting in New York with the President of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock.

During the meeting, views were exchanged on current global challenges and the role of the United Nations in strengthening multilateralism, sustainable development, and international cooperation, CE Report quotes MIA.

Dimitrovski reaffirmed North Macedonia’s strong commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and support for an effective, inclusive, and functional multilateral system.

In the discussion, he noted that the modern world faces serious challenges, including armed conflicts, natural disasters, growing inequality, and violations of international law, which underscore the need for stronger and more effective global cooperation.

In this context, the importance of deepened UN reforms, greater transparency and inclusiveness in decision-making processes, and an enhanced capacity of the organization to address threats to peace, sustainable development, and human rights was emphasized.

Regarding the country’s European perspective, Dimitrovski stressed that North Macedonia remains firmly committed to reforms related to the EU accession process and full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy.

He pointed out that Macedonian society has a clear pro-European orientation, while the government is focused on implementing reforms, expecting the enlargement process to proceed in a clear, credible, and predictable manner.

President Baerbock highlighted that in her current capacity, as well as in her previous role as Germany’s Foreign Minister, she consistently supports the vision of a united Europe based on peace and mutual trust.

She emphasized that the integration of Western Balkan countries into the European Union is essential for ensuring long-term stability, security, and economic progress in the region.

The conversation also covered the priorities of Baerbock’s presidency of the 80th UN General Assembly session, highlighting the need for strengthened cooperation among member states in addressing global challenges, including sustainable development, climate change, and the protection of international peace and security.

Photo: Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of the Republic of North Macedonia