Skopje, 13 June 2023 (MIA) – Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar voiced hope on Tuesday that the politicians in North Macedonia will show wisdom and implement the constitutional amendments, which are a condition for the holding of the Second Intergovernmental Conference. At a joint press conference with her host, President Stevo Pendarovski, Pirc Musar said the EU path is not easy, stressing that Slovenia too had to change its Constitution on the path to membership.

“Slovenia went through this process, and it wasn’t easy for us. Slovenia too had to change the Constitution and back then we also heard talk about how this is bad for the Slovenian people, how the Slovenian language would be lost. We amended an article in the Constitution which allowed foreigners to buy and own property. There were heated political debates over it, but we succeeded, because the Slovenian politicians knew we had to be united when realizing European projects. I hope the politicians will realize how important it is to be united and to make five-six steps forward, and realize what is good for the Macedonian people. I sincerely hope you will demonstrate sufficient political wisdom and amend the Constitution,” said Pirc Musar.

Pirc Musar also underscored the EU’s obligations towards North Macedonia and that the Union should also do its part of the job, and aid North Macedonia in the process.

The Slovenian President stressed she believes and knows that North Macedonia has the potential to join the Union. She added that the new geopolitical environment and Ukraine and Moldova’s candidate status won’t result in North Macedonia being relegated to the background when it comes to the Euro-integrations.

“Regarding the accession of Ukraine and Moldova, every country has a right to aspire and join the EU, but as the President of Slovenia, I guarantee you that North Macedonia won’t disappear from the debates, it will always be at the center of our attention. Slovenia will always support and aid your country,” stressed Pirc Musar.

Photo: Office of the President of North Macedonia