Skopje, 17 January 2024 (MIA) - Deputy PM for good governance policies Slavica Grkovska met Wednesday with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) representatives on intensifying procedures for adoption of the anti-doping law in accordance with the international anti-doping code.

Deputy PM Grkovska informed that a draft-law, proposed by the Justice Ministry, has been drafted and will be submitted to the Government. She expressed hope for a parliamentary consensus and its adoption in a fast-track procedure, as North Macedonia is one of the three countries in Europe without an anti-doping law, the Government said in a press release.

Grkovska said sport is not immune to corruption and that its enormous influence and potential can be used to promote integrity, equality and justice as leading principles in the community. All relevant stakeholders must be mindful of regulations and procedures. The goal is for sport to have a noble mission in society, and not let anything erode its sense and purpose.

Sébastien Gillot, Director of WADA's European office, expressed his satisfaction at previous cooperation with institutions involved in preparing the draft-law and Deputy PM Grkovska's initiative to accelerate its adoption. Considering the upcoming elections, Gillot said that WADA would appreciate if the law is adopted before the start of election campaigns, because otherwise there is a danger of jeopardizing the participation of Macedonian athletes at international sporting events.

Youth and Sport Agency Director Naumche Mojsovski thanked his WADA colleagues for their support, clarifying key provisions of the law and adding that the National Anti-Doping Commission within the Agency would turn into a separate organization, in line with international standards, reads the press release.

Photo: Government