Skopje 7 July 2022 (MIA) - North Macedonia once again comes at a crucial moment in its history. Seventeen years after obtaining candidate status, a historic possibility has just opened up: entering an active phase in the process of joining the European Union. This choice is yours, French President Emmanuel Macron says in a message released by the French Embassy in Skopje. It is up to you, he noted, to make the decision that will shape the future of North Macedonia, which I am convinced is dedicated to be fully part of the European family. "It is now up to you Macedonians to decide. The power to change the course of history is now in your hands. I won't tell you that this agreement is perfect, but it will clear your European path. Like any deal, this one is about trade-offs and balance. This agreement does not call into question the official existence of a Macedonian language, which is an integral part of your identity," says Macron. This agreement evokes the 2017 Friendship Treaty with Bulgaria, he adds. "It guarantees its proper implementation, as part of good neighborly relations, which are part of the foundation of European values. Finally, it is a question of revising the Constitution to integrate new communities into it. Your country already represents a model of coexistence in Europe. It will be up to the Macedonian Parliament to decide," reads Macron's message. The time has come for everyone to act, with full responsibility and measuring the weight and consequences of their actions, according to the French President. "You, the Macedonian people, have shown great political courage and wisdom since your independence. In 2001, you concluded the Ohrid Agreement, a symbol of a possible success of a multi-ethnic society. 18 years later, you managed to find the strength to sign the Prespa Agreement and you are now the 30th NATO ally. You have earned the respect of all of Europe. Your dignity as a Macedonian people is acquired: it will never be questioned." Once again, the time for making choices has come and we are at your side to encourage you to take a new step, urges Macron. Recalling that the country has been a candidate country since 2005, he acknowledges that the process has lasted for too long. "This is why the challenge now is to enter a new phase in your membership process." "We know that over time, delays and difficulties, this European perspective has become the object of doubts. I am fully aware of the depth and sensitivity of the issues to be resolved between North Macedonia and Bulgaria," President Macron says noting he spared no efforts to find a solution that respects everyone's interests and dignity during the French presidency of the Council of the European Union, as well as during the German, Portuguese and Slovenian presidencies. In Bulgaria, Macron concluded, the draft agreement was the subject of an intense debate, but in the end, the Bulgarian Parliament was able to assume its responsibilities with a broad and transpartisan vote.