• Monday, 01 July 2024

French diplomat: Macedonian issue is very complex

French diplomat: Macedonian issue is very complex
Brussels, 23 June 2022 (MIA) – After the failed meeting of the EU and Western Balkans leaders in Brussels on Thursday, French diplomats insist that the enlargement process is not dead while adding they understand the frustrations, especially those of North Macedonia, MIA reports from Brussels. “There was a unified message by Europeans to provide assurances that the European perspective is guaranteed for the countries of the Western Balkans, that the enlargement process should continue and be given fresh dynamics. This was a clear message by all Europeans,” said one French diplomat. On the meeting, he explained that each country presented its positions and frustrations. “They were thankful for the invitation and the renewed engagement, but of course the Macedonians are frustrated because of the Bulgarian blockade, Albanians because they are tied to the Macedonians, the Kosovars will apply for a candidate-status by the year-end and demanded for immediate visa liberalization, while Bosnia wants a candidate-status as the one drafted for Ukraine and Moldova,” said the diplomat. He added that every country had its own demands, but added that the meeting was “useful”. “We are trying to resolve the Macedonian issue, which is very complex considering the political situation in Bulgaria but also in Macedonia,” the diplomat said. According to him, individual cases must be solved in order to prevent destabilization in parts of the Western Balkans. “In this context, the proposal over a European political community was very well received by the regional states because they see that even if guarantees for the accession process are given, this will require time. Therefore, the acquisition of this political framework where European countries sharing the same values and aspirations can join has attracted their interest,” underlined the French diplomat.