Skopje, 15 November 2023 (MIA) - Deputy Prime Minister in charge of European affairs Bojan Marichikj met Wednesday with Romanian Foreign Minister Luminița Odobescu, who is in a working visit to North Macedonia. Talks focused on bilateral cooperation, Romania's continued support for North Macedonia's European integration process and current events.

Marichikj highlighted the importance of the friendly cooperation and long-term support Romania offers to North Macedonia on its path to the EU. Support that is focused on cooperation in several areas, including the fight against corruption, judiciary, cybersecurity, internal affairs and civil protection, the Secretariat for European Affairs said in a press release.

The Deputy PM also said the Government is firmly committed to the European integration process, and that the friendly cooperation between North Macedonia and Romania is a positive influence for the realization of the country’s strategic goal.

"Cooperation between our two countries is very important on the road to EU, and Romania's positive experience and practice in that process are a good example for the implementation of reforms in our country," Marichikj said.

"Romania, he added, is our key partner from Southeast Europe, and by establishing good ties in the region, we are ensuring a successful regional cooperation and a stable Western Balkans and Southeast Europe," the press release reads. 

According to the press release, Marichikj 

Interlocutors discussed Romania's experience with the EU integration process, as well as challenges of similar nature that were solved and overcame during that process, which contributed to the country's development, while also building greater trust in the system among the citizens due to the successful transition.

The Romanian Minister stated that Romania is a close friend to North Macedonia, highlighting the support for the country's EU accession process. She said that this is a key moment for North Macedonia, stressing that due to their own experience, they are aware of the challenges the country is facing.

At the end of the meeting, interlocutors concluded that the citizens of North Macedonia will gain a lot more trust once the challenges are overcome, and that the reform process will continue on the country’s path to the EU.ssh/ad/