Skopje, 14 June 2023 (MIA) – We expect the motion for constitutional changes to be in the Parliament in the next few weeks, and the procedure and discussion will begin there. We believe it is correct and important for every MP to have the opportunity to express themselves, said Deputy PM for European Affairs Bojan Marichikj. 

Commenting on the process of constitutional amendments, Marichikj told Telma TV on Wednesday that efforts to reach out to the opposition with reason and to discuss reasonably will continue.

"I am sure that if we take enough time and have the right approach to explain to every MP the importance and responsibility, and the consequences of accepting or not accepting this proposal, this motion, we will reach two thirds," said Marichikj.

Asked what if two-thirds majority is not reached, Marichikj expressed confidence that it will be reached, and if it is not reached, it means that we have set up a roadblock ourselves and have stopped on the path.

"Those who will vote against, and those who will decide to impose a new veto, this time on themselves, they will have to give an answer to the citizens why we have to wait for another ten years. Meanwhile, Albania, Serbia, Montenegro, Ukraine and Moldova will move forward and become members of the EU," Marichikj said.

As regards whether unsuccessful voting on the motion would also mean elections in the autumn, Marichikj said "there will be no voting until it is successful."

"That is my impression, that the first vote will be successful, whenever it happens," said Marichikj. 

Marichikj reiterated that it would be good if VMRO-DPMNE decided to participate and discuss under what conditions, or with mutual consent, the initiative should be sent to the Parliament.

"That's why it is important to sit down for talks, at whatever level they want, in order to arrive at the exact calendar on how to proceed," Marichikj said. 

Photo: MIA archive