Skopje, 15 August 2024 (MIA) - Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Timcho Mucunski, hosted Thursday a reception to honor the completion of Ambassador David Geer’s term as the Head of the EU Delegation in North Macedonia.

At the event, Mucunski, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted that the country’s primary objective remains to join the European Union as soon as possible. He underscored that European integration and securing full membership are the highest priorities in the country’s foreign policy.

Reflecting on the long period of our EU integration process, Mucunski emphasized that the demonstrated cooperativeness and constructiveness on our part are recognized attributes in managing the process. The uniqueness of our dossier and the experience we are undergoing in the EU accession process is a special qualification, which we believe deserves distinct treatment and recognition from the EU member states.

According to the press release, Mucunski also discussed other priorities in pursuing our strategic goals: speeding up the EU accession process, enhancing relations with our strategic partners, fostering active regional cooperation, restoring trust in state institutions, and launching a decisive fight against corruption, with the rule of law as the leading principle. He also referred to the cooperation with the European Union and the European Commission, noting that the Union's support and expertise are crucial for the country's reforms, stability, and prosperity. He stressed that as a country, we greatly appreciate the assistance from EU member states and the European Commission, and our partnership with the EU will continue to grow at the same pace, based on shared values and principles.

Among other things, Mucunski highlighted the role and active work of Ambassador Geer over the past four years, during a period of significant challenges and truly difficult circumstances, the effects of which were felt by all countries, including the citizens of our own country. He also expressed appreciation for Ambassador Geer’s work and his intensive cooperation, highlighting that Geer’s active and effective approach significantly contributed to achieving the set objectives. This has left a lasting impact on relations with the EU and the European Commission and has resulted in the remarkable performance of the EU Delegation in North Macedonia, which will be permanently acknowledged.

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs