Brussels, 24 June 2024 (MIA) - I firmly believe EU enlargement is one of the most successful peace processes on the European continent which contributes to the creation of resilient societies, and it is clear that the EU membership of the Western Balkan countries represents a geostrategic investment in the peace, stability and prosperity of the continent as a whole, said Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Timcho Mucunski in his address at Monday’s meeting of EU and Western Balkan foreign ministers held within the frameworks of the European Foreign Affairs Council (FAC).

In his address, Mucunski highlighted the new Government’s commitment to accelerating the pace of reforms, which, he said, lead to the fulfillment of the set goal of membership in the European Union.

In the context of global events, Mucunski stressed that the Russian Federation’s military aggression against Ukraine is the most pressing and greatest challenge on the European continent and beyond.

According to the Minister, the conflict also holds great negative influence on the Western Balkan countries, potentially creating a zone for possible destabilization of the region. 

“Our country maintains its principled position on Ukraine that it has held from the very first day of the war, condemning Russia’s brutal aggression and providing unequivocal support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Mucunski said.

Mucunski noted that the country is fully aligned with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, including the implementation of all restrictive measures introduced by the EU on Russia, and added that the country is also providing political, humanitarian and military support to Ukraine.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, at Monday's meeting the joint commitment to further support for the EU integration of the Western Balkan countries was reaffirmed as a shared strategic goal and a security guarantee.

As part of his Luxembourg visit, Mucunski will also attend an audience with the Luxembourg Grand Duke Henri and a working dinner with the EU and Western Balkans foreign ministers at an invitation by Luxembourg’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Xavier Bettel.

After departing Luxembourg, Mucunski will pay his first working visit to Brussels, where he is expected to meet with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and EU top officials.  

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade