North Macedonia Sends Clear Message to EU
At a joint press conference with the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski stressed that the Government’s commitment is clear - the country belongs in the EU, since, he said, it has invested a lot of effort and made a lot of sacrifices, however, according to the PM, “this commitment must be returned”, CE Report quotes MIA.
“We spoke about the path to the European Union – a path that wasn’t easy, nor short, nor always just. A path with many challenges, compromises and, unfortunately, too much waiting. Our commitment remains clear – we belong in the European Union. Not because someone owes this to us, but because for decades we have been building a society of democratic values, rule of law, human rights and good neighborly relations. Because we are investing, making sacrifices and changing, with hopes that our effort will be recognized. However, this commitment must be returned. This country has the right to expect a much clearer, more open and more honest confirmation by the Union itself. Since, we can agree that not all member states have behaved in the European spirit toward Macedonia. There were periods of blockades, unprincipled demands, as well as silence from Brussels when we most needed any kind of support,” Mickoski said at the press conference.
The Prime Minister stressed that Kallas’ visit to Skopje is an important message that the EU is not forgetting about the region and has a legitimate interest in its situation and conditions. Mickoski said they spoke openly, and he asked Kallas for fair treatment and consistency in the process.
“Today I asked for fair treatment, I asked for consistency, I asked that Europe show leadership, not only on paper, but in reality as well. So we can restore the faith in the European idea, especially among the youth, to demonstrate that the European Union is not a closed club, but a living vision, a union of values open for all who live those values. We aren’t only talking about reforms today, we are living them, and we are not doing this for applause, but because we believe this is the right path. We believe in the European dream, but also we ask that this dream is available to all, not just to a select few. That’s why I welcome today’s inauguration of the first Security and Defence Dialogue with the EU. This isn’t just usual symbolism, but a sign that we are moving in the same direction,” the Prime Minister stressed.
He also stressed that the cooperation with the Balkan Medical Task Force and the assistance in the field of defense, healthcare and youth policies are also steps that mean a lot for the country.
“Despite all challenges, I believe that the future is on our side. I believe in our citizens, in their decisiveness, patience and maturity. I believe in the vision of the European Union, as a community that values principles, does not forget the contribution and knows when is the time to make the right step. Our hand remains extended. We are open for friendship, dialogue and cooperation. But we stand firm, upright and dignified, with a clear message: we are ready. Europe can count on us, and now is the time for us to start counting on Europe as well. Let this meeting be another bridge, a bridge of trust, understanding and a shared future,” Mickoski said at the press conference.
