Skopje, 1 March 2024 (MIA) — First Deputy Prime Minister of European Affairs Bojan Marichikj is on an official visit to Rome, Italy, to meet with top government officials on March 1–2, according to an official press release.

On Friday, First Deputy PM Marichikj met with Italy's Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Edmondo Cirielli.

The meeting with Deputy Minister Cirielli reaffirmed Italy's support during the country's EU membership process, the release says.

Marichikj expressed his gratitude to Italy, which he said was one of the countries North Macedonia had a cultural and civilizational connection with, as well as friendly ties. He added that the state counted on Italy's strategic support during its EU accession process.

Meeting participants highlighted the importance of the EU's Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, which is aimed at helping regional countries accelerate access to the EU single market, the release adds.

Marichikj and Cirielli also agreed that North Macedonia's and the Western Balkans' joining the EU was of great importance for the region as well as for the bloc itself. 

The biggest benefits of joining the EU, they noted, were youth mobility, more business opportunities for companies, and social and economic development. mr/