Gostivar, 14 November 2022 (MIA) – Through the accession process and harmonization of laws with the EU acquis, their implementation will fall to the local authorities, which is why it is important that citizens are familiarized with this process, said EU Ambassador David Geer during visit to the Municipality of Gostivar on Monday. Ambassador Geer met with Gostivar Mayor Arben Taravari and members of the municipal council, sharing afterwards several messages related to his visit and the country’s accession process. Geer stated that one of the reasons for his visit to Gostivar is the need to explain the accession and screening processes, the steps taken thus far and those yet to be taken. "We also want to share experiences and hear the opinions of the citizens, councils and the local government. I would also like to remind that the implementation of the legislation, which will be harmonized with EU standards in large part concerns the local authorities. The estimate is that 70 percent of the legislation will fall on the shoulders of the local authorities who will then have to implement it. Because of that, it is necessary that a discussion is held with all affected parties,” said Geer. The EU Ambassador expressed his satisfaction from the fruitful discussion with the mayor and members of the municipal council and recalled that the EU would offer assistance, both with the accession process and in ensuring that Gostivar fully utilizes the financial aid envisaged for the municipality. Mayor Taravari stated that the visit was useful and used the occasion to express his gratitude for the EU assistance offered to the municipality as part of a series of projects. He mentioned that about thirty EU-funded projects worth EUR 4,8 million have been realized locally over the past decade. “This cooperation will intensify and soon we will appoint a person responsible for communications with the EU Delegation and who will also keep track of the EU’s public calls, so that we can ensure timely participation with quality projects,” said Taravari. In Gostivar, Ambassador Geer is set to visit the town's Health Center, which recently received assistance of Covid-19 vaccines, meet citizens and NGO activists. ad/ik/