Ohrid, 6 October 2024 (MIA) - Prime Minister and VMRO-DPMNE leader Hristijan Mickoski reiterated Sunday that the country is unequivocally committed to the Euro-integration process, saying that Albania's decoupling does not mean it will swiftly join the Union.

"Albania's decoupling from Macedonia in the accession process has favored all skeptics and forces that do not believe in the EU. We believe in the EU and believe that Macedonia's membership is our strategic priority. The EU membership is a cohesive factor along all lines in society, from ethnic to political. We are unequivocally committed to continue on this path, but the EU has continually been unjust to us by making these moves. Although Albania's decoupling does not mean its swift accession, this is not the first time we see this. We were in the same group with Bulgaria and Romania, then with Croatia, then with Serbia and Montenegro, and eventually with Albania. I am certain we will meet again on this path and this is also clear to all those who know the state of play in the EU. Nevertheless, we must not allow skeptics to win and the country to remain stuck in geopolitical limbo. The Union membership must be alive, the process must be alive, and we will offer proposals and solutions to overcome this status quo. In parallel, we will be committed to the reforms towards changing our ugly reality, because this is for our own good," Mickoski told the 33rd annual conference of the VMRO-DPMNE youth union in Ohrid.

The PM noted that he would work with the European Commission and partners to find dignified solutions, in line with the national interests.

"I will not accept dictates, let me make this clear. This process requires understanding from the Union, which we expect will demonstrate equal faith in the European future of our region. Macedonia and its citizens have given a lot and have been held hostages to bilateral problems and demands for too long. I am not seeking for compassion and excuses. I want respect for my people. We are planning to include the opposition in the processes when the time comes for this. We will not promise things that cannot be accomplished but we will also not miss out on the opportunity to consult the opposition and ask for support for our efforts. We have the same goals, there is no doubt about this. Next week, I will send a letter to all stakeholders and reaffirm my unequivocal will for dialogue, reforms and solutions. I am open to ideas and dialogue, and all skeptics should know this. The topics of isolation are fears and psychological burden for skeptics. We will move forward, whether some like it or not," said Mickoski.

The VMRO-DPMNE leader added that he does not need power at all costs.

"I said this from the first moment when I became party leader - I do not need power. I want to change and improve things. This is my hope and my ideal," underlined Mickoski.

MIA file photo and screenshot