Skopje, 1 March 2023 (MIA) – It is obvious that the Western Balkans has the attention of the European Union, which is of course a positive indication that the European perspective of the region is real and predictable. We are committed to progress on our path to EU membership through quality and speedy negotiations. Our end goal is to bring Europe home, so that we can live Europe, and not only talk and hope for Europe, said Deputy PM for European Affairs Bojan Marichikj on Wednesday.

In his video address at the Skopje Economic Forum, organized by the Delphi Economic Forum and the Hellenic Business Association, the Deputy PM said the clear European perspective with accurate and predictable dates will act as a catalyst for the reforms and help us offer timely and quality solutions for our EU tasks and obligations.

 “The Russian aggression against Ukraine was a wake up call for the EU, that it must clearly and precisely define its strategic policy and come up with a plan for a European perspective of the region. The serious consequences that the Russian aggression on Ukraine has caused in the Balkans require greater engagement from the EU in our region, and a confirmation from us that we are on the same side and that we are a credible partner in the protection of the European values, peace and stability,” said Marichikj.

According to Marichikj, it was necessary to demonstrate that the EU has retained its leading role in the region. This, he said, was done through the EU – Western Balkans Summit in Tirana.

“The EU affirmed its commitment and announced additional increased political engagement in our region. This is especially important at a time when the trust of the Western Balkan citizens in the Euro-integrations process is significantly dropping, mainly due to the fact that the region was put on hold for so long. The Balkan countries are on a path of reforms, dedicated to transforming their societies, but what we expect is a plan for EU membership,” said Marichikj.

The Deputy PM added that we share the responsibility and the European values with the EU, and stressed that as strategic partners, we will respond to all external influences together, securing a continuous policy of enlargement and uniting the Western Balkans with the EU. ad/nn/

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