Skopje, 26 April 2024 (MIA) – The economic accession of Western Balkan countries in the EU is the right formula for meeting our joint goal as a region – full-fledged EU membership. Reform implementation is the right step, stimulated by the new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, said Deputy Finance Minister Filip Nikoloski participating at a meeting in Podgorica of ministers from the region and EU officials on the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. 

“This regional format of holding meetings, the third dedicated to the Growth Plan, is considered an efficient model for accelerating the reform agenda. North Macedonia’s reform agenda has been already adopted by the government before sending it to the EC. What’s important is to stimulate the implementation of the reform processes. It will be the right path to join the EU,” he stated. 

The Deputy Minister referred to the activities of the government in relation to the country’s accession to the SEPA zone and the improvement of the green lanes, the Finance Ministry said in a press release. 

“North Macedonia has expressed readiness to meet the criteria for close economic and legal relations with the EU and readiness to execute payment transactions in euros by accessing SEPA,” Nikoloski said adding the request has been prepared and an application will be sent by the middle of the year. 

He added that additional benefits are expected after improving the green lanes, established during the Covid crisis. By expanding them, he said, uninterrupted supply chains and enhanced trade will be secured. 

Referring to the government’s commitment to introducing customs reforms, the official said that customs cooperation should be focused not only on alleviating trade but also on protecting the financial interests of the EU and the Western Balkans. 

This is the third ministerial meeting dedicated to the Growth Plan following those held in Skopje and Tirana. 

Photo: Finance Ministry