Struga, 15 June 2023 (MIA) - Tonight, the German Parliament will vote on a resolution on the role or membership of North Macedonia in the EU. Many citizens express the fear of losing their language, identity and history. We cannot say what the Bulgarians should do, but the German Parliament can promise you friendship and we promise you that the German Parliament recognizes the Macedonian identity, language and history, Germany's Special Envoy for the Western Balkans Manuel Sarrazin told Thursday's official opening session of the 2023 Prespa Forum Dialogue in Struga.

"This is a promise that we support you and always stand by you in your membership efforts. North Macedonia is an example of respect for diversity and fundamental European values. Tonight, the German Parliament will confirm this, and this is very important," said Sarrazin. 

Earlier at the opening session, European Council President Charles Michel said in a video message the Prespa Agreement has shown that even the most difficult obstacles can be overcome with courage, leadership, and responsibility, for the benefit of everyone.

"One year ago you took another pivotal step and together with North Macedonia, we held the first inter-governmental conference in the accession process. With the ongoing screening process, you are steadily advancing on your path to the EU. I’m confident this will continue," said Michel. 

He urged for the need to take full advantage of the fresh momentum injected into the EU enlargement process. 

"Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has brought war back to our European continent. As fellow Europeans, we stand with the people of Ukraine at this dark hour. We believe that the best way to defend peace and security in Europe is by spreading democracy and prosperity in a spirit of respect and cooperation. So we need to take full advantage of the fresh momentum we have injected into the EU enlargement process. We need to get ready -- both the EU and the Western Balkans -- for our shared future together," the European Council President said. 

Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski, under whose auspices the forum is held, kicked off the 2023 Prespa Forum Dialogue with a keynote address at the official opening session "Prespa Agreement Five Years on: Challenges Turned into Opportunities".

The official opening session of the 2023 PFD, held outdoors, was briefly interrupted due to an incident with the equipment caused by the strong wind. Fortunately, there were no consequences and the session continued in line with the agenda. 

The third annual Prespa Forum Dialogue which features discussions on the topic "Widened European family by 2030: Mission (Im)possible)?" is organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the auspices of Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski. 

Participants include the heads of state of Montenegro, Croatia, Albania; regional prime ministers; the foreign ministers of Croatia, Ireland, Czechia; and high representatives of the UN and OSCE. The forum also brings together representatives of the academic and business community, civil society, and youth organizations.