Skopje, 4 December 2021 (MIA) – Justice Minister Bojan Marichikj said in an interview with Radio-Television Slovenia (RTV Slovenia) that strong commitment from all is needed at this point to start negotiations with the European Union sooner. “It is important to start negotiations with the EU as soon as possible. It is our duty to work on resolving the issue with Bulgaria. There is readiness on our part, but it should be based on mutual respect and European values,” said Marichikj. According to him, a date to start negotiations is in the interest of the EU, of Bulgaria and other members, because otherwise, the Union’s credibility and policy, not just in the country but the Western Balkans, will be brought under question. Asked about North Macedonia’s progress according to the European Commission, Marichikj said the Government and the judiciary have taken great strides in the judicial system, implementing cleansing of the judiciary, strengthening the criteria for selecting and dismissing judges and prosecutors. He also stressed the importance of the Academy of Judges and Public Prosecutors in restoring citizens' trust in the judiciary.