Skopje, 6 December 2024 (MIA) - When we presented the position for a delayed implementation of the constitutional amendments we didn’t promise that we would find a solution overnight, but we are saying that we have a principled position, and we are presenting this to the international community, the member states and European institutions through arguments. This approach protects the national interests so we can avoid a situation like in the past, with an unexpected veto, while also protecting the midterm and long-term credibility of the European Union, said Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Timcho Mucunski.

In an interview for the “360 Stepeni” political show, the Foreign Minister said the position for a delayed implementation of the amendments was presented at numerous meetings and demonstrates the Government’s readiness for compromise, but, he said, “a compromise that carries certainty”.

“Many of the people we spoke to at the European Union believe our approach is logical, fair and appropriate, but this is an approach that requires understanding from Bulgaria as our neighbor,” Mucunski added, stressing that the European Union is based on a culture of compromises.

Asked about the possibility of finding a solution for the continuation of the Euro-integration path, Minister Mucunski said the European Union cannot afford to further draw out enlargement with the Western Balkans.

“From a strategic viewpoint, Europe cannot afford itself a political and security vacuum in our region. We are a country that is fully aligned with the common security policy of the EU and that has adopted the reform agenda. We will continue with the reforms in all areas, following the recommendations of the European Union,” Mucunski said.

The Minister also highlighted his personal belief that if the country focuses on “real reforms” it will be one of the fastest moving countries on the path to full-fledged membership.

“If we really focus on European reforms, proactively or through concrete measures, it will be difficult for any country to block us in the long-term. When you have a country that is fully aligned with the common foreign policy and that implements reforms, the burden is on the Government, the ministers, but also on the nongovernmental sector and the media. We need to be moving through this process together, to reform the country, and I have no doubts that we will be one of the fastest moving countries on the path to full-fledged membership once the Union is open for new members,” the Foreign Minister said.

Photo: MIA Archive