Ilhan Kyuchyuk for KOHA: The coalition agreement between Zaev and Ahmeti fits the expectations of the European partners

“I believe that the Republic of North Macedonia held fair and legitimate elections in an extremely difficult situation of a global pandemic. The country’s citizens exercised their political right to decide who would lead North Macedonia through the crucial phases of the complex EU accession negotiations.”, this was stated by MEP Ilhan Kyuchyuk in a interview for macedonian newspaper KOHA.

KOHA: Mr. Kyuchyuk, what are your expectations from the Zaev-Ahmeti Government?

Kyuchyuk: Contrary to many expectations, an agreement to form the new government was found in a short period of time, and the request made by Zaev and Ahmeti at the presentation of the coalition agreement fits the expectations of the European partners. Namely, the continuation of reforms on the country’s path to the European Union. The emphasis on the fight against corruption and organized crime is also impressive.

KOHA: The Albanian opposition in Macedonia warns of a boycott of institutions. How do you see this action of theirs?

Kyuchyuk: I believe that the Republic of North Macedonia held fair and legitimate elections in an extremely difficult situation of a global pandemic. The country’s citizens exercised their political right to decide who would lead North Macedonia through the crucial phases of the complex EU accession negotiations. From personal experience with Bulgaria, I can tell you that throughout this process the opposition can play a very constructive and positive role, but not by boycotting democratic institutions.

KOHA: On the other hand, VMRO-DPMNE also considers that the government of Zaev-Ahmeti is not legitimate. What should the opposition do to prevent Macedonia’s path to the EU?

Kyuchyuk: It is clear that the citizens want to link the future of the country with the European Union. We acknowledge this fact and are ready to continue to support the newly elected parliament and government, including in constant contact with the opposition. Functioning institutions whose actions are closely monitored by a committed opposition are needed to steer the country towards recovery from the pandemic and to pursue reforms, rather than undermining its future.

KOHA: The opening of chapters with the European Union is expected soon! Does North Macedonia have the capacity to meet its obligations?

Kyuchyuk: I hope that with the start of the new political season, the Council will adopt the final text of the negotiating framework without delay in order to convene the first intergovernmental conference as soon as possible. North Macedonia has come a long way and deservedly reached this one. I believe that one of the first tasks of the new government is to prepare a roadmap for accession on the basis of a broad political consensus in the country.

KOHA: Although Macedonia and Bulgaria have an agreement on good neighbourliness, they still have certain disputes between them, historical and cultural. Could Bulgaria be an obstacle to the country’s Euro-Atlantic path?

Kyuchyuk: The historic agreements with Bulgaria and Greece are at the centre of the European future of North Macedonia, they emphasize the importance of good neighbourly relations throughout the European continent. Bulgaria and North Macedonia are two neighbouring, friendly countries that share a common past and want to share a common future in the EU. Bulgaria has constantly advocated for North Macedonia’s membership in NATO and the EU.

KOHA: What are the concrete steps by both parties that could help overcome the dispute between them?

Kyuchyuk: I hope that after the elections are over and the new government is operational, the established joint historical commission will resume its work and we will soon see concrete results. The Commission must have a non-binding political mandate on the basis of which to draw scientific conclusions. The role of politicians will come at a later stage. Dialogue is the only way to create a common future, not opposition. We owe this to future generations.

KOHA: What is your assessment of Macedonia’s response to the health crisis caused by Covid-19?

Kyuchyuk: I believe that the country is doing what is possible given the situation, which is very dynamic and changes daily. All countries, including those with highly developed health systems and stable economies, are suffocating. The EU has mobilized € 3.3 billion to tackle the coronavirus pandemic in the Western Balkans, and we will continue to work with our partners to mitigate the socio-economic consequences of COVID-19.

Тази публикация е достъпна и на следните езици: Bulgarian