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Kyuchyuk to Osmani: Bulgaria and North Macedonia should make efforts to resolve problems

I believe that both sides will resume constructive discussions. Otherwise, we see the alarming development of the situation, namely the growing nationalism and hate speech.

Today, MRF / Renew Europe MEP Ilhan Kyuchyuk, who is also the permanent rapporteur on the Republic of North Macedonia, presented the progress report to Foreign Affairs Committee. Following the European Council’s decision to open accession negotiations with North Macedonia in march this year, the convening of the first intergovernmental conference was postponed due to a lack of progress in relations with Bulgaria.

According to Kyuchyuk, despite the complicated situation with pandemic, North Macedonia has managed to hold democratic elections and achieved excellence on the part of state and government deserve to be recognized.

“The new government has demonstrated continuity of commitment to European and Euro-Atlantic path of the country by implementing stable and inclusive democratic reforms and by taking important steps to strengthen democracy and the rule of law.” said MEP to the Commission.

Kyuchyuk also did not deny the fact that rapid reforms and more progress were needed in some areas, but said the government had full potential to continue on the path to European integration.

 

Later, the MEP met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia, Bujar Osmani. During the conversation, Kyuchyuk categorized as a cornerstone for the convening of the first intergovernmental conference, the lack of compromises on the disputed issues with Bulgaria, but expressed hope:

“I hope that we will soon overcome this impasse and go in the right direction again. Bulgaria and North Macedonia must make efforts to solve the problems, because this stagnation not only undermines the credibility of the EU, but also has a direct negative impact in our countries. I believe that both sides will resume constructive talks, because otherwise we see the alarming development of the situation, namely the growing nationalism and hate speech. Understanding and mutual respect between our citizens will be key to resolving the dispute. “

Тази публикация е достъпна и на следните езици: Bulgarian