Skopje, 23 February 2022 (MIA) – Bilateral cooperation in the field of judiciary, progress in implementation of reform agenda and the 2023-2027 Judiciary Reform Strategy were in the focus of a meeting of Justice Minister Nikola Tupanchevski and French Ambassador Cyrille Baumgartner on Wednesday. Minister Tupancheski highlighted North Macedonia’s European commitment and expectations that France will reaffirm its stance over the enlargement with the Western Balkans countries as the current EU Presidency holder, the Justice Ministry said in a press release. Tupancheski said the ministry plays a crucial role in the implementation of Chapter 23 reforms in the EU accession negotiations, pointing to the necessity of implementing democratic principles and rule of law on the reform path, whereas judicial reforms must ensure independence and impartiality but also its accountability. Ambassador Baumgartner saluted North Macedonia’s European commitment to realization of the action plan from the 2017-2022 Judiciary Reform Strategy, as well as strengthening of judiciary independence, while voicing openness for expert support and enhancement of cooperation, reads the press release.