Skopje, 6 November 2023 (MIA) – Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani anticipates an impartial report from the European Commission (EC), one that is expected to acknowledge the achievements but also provide critical feedback on the country's shortcomings.

"I am anticipating an impartial report. The European Commission is known for its fairness in assessments. I expect acknowledgments of our accomplishments, along with critiques of the existing shortcomings in the country," he said on Monday.

"This is precisely why we are striving to open these chapters - to address our weaknesses," stated Osmani in response to a journalist's query regarding the anticipated European Commission report. He stressed the collective awareness that the country is not yet fully prepared for EU membership, but it is well-prepared to engage in the opening of these chapters aimed at rectifying the shortcomings expected to be outlined in the EC's forthcoming report.

On Wednesday, (Nov. 8), the European Commission is set to unveil its annual progress reports assessing the advancements of countries aspiring to join the European Union.

During her visit to Skopje last week as part of her tour of Western Balkan countries, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underscored that the faster the reform process, the sooner the opportunity for accession.

“A window of opportunity is now open. The process is now more flexible and merit-based, with no set date for accession,” she said, adding that the EU wants the Western Balkans to join the European Union, and that this integration process hinges on adequate preparations by both the EU and the Western Balkan countries.

Osmani responded to a journalist's question regarding constitutional changes, a prerequisite for commencing negotiations on clusters, stressing that responsibility lies with those obstructing the country's European path.

“We have affirmed our firm commitment to works tirelessly until the very last moment, leaving no stone unturned, to ensure a European future for its citizens. However, everyone will need to face the citizens due to their voluntary decision to obstruct the nation's future, with all the consequences it carries,” stated Osmani.

During today's briefing dedicated to preparations for the upcoming OSCE Ministerial Council to be held on November 29-30, Osmani, serving as the current Chairperson-in-Office, responded to questions regarding his ambassadorial post in Paris, noting that there are no issues associated with this position.

“France is a significant partner for us. That's why I participated in the ministerial meeting of the Francophonie, of which we are members. Osmani acknowledged that the situation concerning the Paris ambassadorial posting had experienced some delays from the original schedule. He clarified that while an ambassador was originally slated to be assigned, a change in this decision became necessary due to a set of unforeseen circumstances. Following part of the selection process in the Foreign Policy Committee and considering a crucial phase in the interviews with other ambassadorial candidates, Osmani expects this group of ambassadors to set forth. He made a plea for the President's direct involvement in conducting interviews with other ambassadorial candidates. He emphasized the importance of expediting this phase to enable prompt appointments to countries currently lacking ambassadors,” Osmani added.

In response to the Diplomatic Syndicate's request for salary raises, Osmani expressed his support and concurred with the syndicate's assessment. He noted that Macedonian diplomats currently receive some of the lowest salaries in the regional context.

He praised the diplomats for their unwavering commitment over the past four years and pointed out the glaring issue of their being among the lowest-paid professionals in the region, emphasizing that they rightfully deserve equitable compensation.

Photo: MIA/MIA archive