Western Balkans more advanced than Ukraine, Moldova in EU path, says North Macedonia President

President of North Macedonia Gordana Siljanovska Davkova said the initiatives to restrict the veto option in the European Union enlargement process is a positive development.

She noted it is too early to give a final assessment since the official documents are yet to be released, CE Report quotes MIA.

"I find it positive that we are seeing, for the first time, an attempt to sideline the veto. I have said on many occasions that I am not entirely clear with the veto right of EU member-states but also the situation when 26 members can say an action plan is fine and is of high standard when it comes to protection of freedoms and rights, including minority ones, and only one says 'no'", President Siljanovska Davkova told reporters.

The EU, she added, should find mechanisms to prevent the blockade to enlargement due to identity and history, instead of fulfilling or failure to meet European criteria.

On the progress of candidate-countries, the President said the Western Balkans is significantly ahead in the process compared to other candidates.

"I have a deep sympathy and understanding for Ukraine and Moldova, but I must say that the Western Balkans is much more advanced. The screening has shown this. The obstacle we are facing is, as far as I am concerned, irrational," said Siljanovska Davkova.

She condemned the incident when a diplomatic vehicle of the Bulgarian Embassy in Skopje was set on fire, while urging against making premature conclusions.

"This is an act of vandalism but I cannot judge in advance. The court will have its say. It should not impact our relations, why would it? The response was swift," said Siljanovska Davkova.

The President noted that the country should not waste time on identity issues, but left to focus on the Copenhagen criteria.

Photo: Instagram/gordana_siljanovska_davkova