Skopje, 16 December 2025 (MIA) — Whether accession has started or not, it is very clear that the country needs reforms; the roadmap is there and everyone would like to see more progress on that front, US Ambassador Angela Aggeler said in a TV appearance Tuesday evening commenting on the country's stalled EU negotiations.

In an interview with Sitel TV, Ambassador Aggeler stressed the United States' position "that North Macedonia's place is in Europe." 

"You are in the heart of Europe," she said. "One need only look at a map to understand how important that is. It's critical for trade, it's critical for security, as we look at Corridors 8 and 10 and the national security of this country and the region. It's very important for the transatlantic relationship so it's something that we follow very closely and are also very clear: Look, this is where you belong. The EU is the natural home of this country."

"That said, I know that this government is having conversations. They are having frequent conversations with member state countries, with leaders within the EU, with the European Commission, and are genuinely seeking ways forward. Would we all like to see more progress and more immediate results? I think so, yes. I also believe that it's important to bear in mind that even with those conversations that are going on about accession, and about EU membership, that that should not stall, in any way, the efforts that are needed that are very much a part of that process in terms of reforms," she said.

The US ambassador also noted that the country's citizens "have said time and again through their votes and through their expressions that they want this country to make progress," especially in the economy and the rule of law. 

According to her, the political crisis in Bulgaria should not hinder the country's negotiations process because "North Macedonia being in the European Union is to everyone's benefit, including the neighbors." 

"We have seen that so clearly with Greece, for example. For years and years, this country had issues with Greece. Now they are a tremendous economic partner, security partner, military partner, and there's no reason not to move forward with that with Bulgaria as well. It's our fondest hope that they're able to find a way forward with that, because again, it's in the best interests of both," Aggeler said.

Asked if the USA could informally help in the process by influencing Brussels, the ambassador said the US should not be expected to step in to be a moderator. 

"I wouldn't expect it anytime soon," she said. "However, do we watch very closely?"

"Washington is very interested in what happens in this country," Aggeler said. "The foreign minister in particular, but the prime minister as well and other ministers, have made trips to the US, have excellent contacts with the most senior officials in Washington, have really good conversations frequently at summits around the world. So there is attention paid, and there is genuine concern and interest, supportive interest in what happens in this country. 

"But we also want to make sure that the country, the government, is doing what is best for the interests of its people and its voters, and we continue to watch that very closely." mr/