Skopje, 9 April 2025 (MIA) - Slovenia remains a strong supporter of North Macedonia on its Euro-Atlantic path, Slovenian National Assembly Speaker, Urška Klakočar Zupančič, said at Wednesday’s joint press conference following her meeting with the Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi.

“I want to highlight that Slovenia remains a committed and continuous supporter of North Macedonia on its path to the EU and will continue to offer its experiences and support. I am convinced that the fact that the new enlargement commissioner is Slovenian, Mrs. Marta Kos, will be a positive aspect for the region’s enlargement. The National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia is always open to the exchange of experiences and values at the parliamentary and expert service levels, which contributes to the more efficient functioning of the Macedonian Parliament as it moves toward the EU. I look forward to the day when we can welcome North Macedonia as a full member of the EU,” she said.

Klakočar Zupančič emphasized that she personally believes the accession of the Western Balkan countries to the EU should happen as soon as possible.

“Personally, I think this should not be so far off because the accession of the Western Balkan countries can no longer be a question of if, whether, or when. It must happen quickly. I wish the decisions and solutions come as soon as possible for the Republic of Macedonia, because in Slovenia, we are aware that we are united by a common heart and mutual understanding, primarily the similar history, similar size, similar population, and a similar struggle for the people, identity, and language. It's time for you to join us in European integration,” she said.

Klakočar Zupančič stressed that she and Gashi agreed that the parliamentary cooperation has been excellent so far, adding that this visit continues the successful partnership.

"In my delegation is Sandra Gazenkoski, the president of the friendship group, which makes this visit an important opportunity for contacts between the friendship groups, something that means a great deal to us. I hope this visit will serve as an additional impetus for cooperation, especially in the working bodies that our Parliament is eager to strengthen. Our parliamentary cooperation is also successfully supplemented by regional parliamentary assemblies and forums. Lastly, at the end of this week, the Parliament hosted the Committee, and the annual meeting will take place in Slovenia, where I believe the Macedonian delegation will participate," she said.

Klakočar Zupančič highlighted that during the meeting with Speaker Gashi, they confirmed the excellent relations between our countries, based primarily on friendship and mutual solidarity.

"The countries are very close partners, with cooperation based on shared values and mutual partnership. Slovenia has been and remains a strong supporter of North Macedonia on its Euro-Atlantic path, encouraging initiatives for achieving a suitable economic area and an appropriate, just legislative framework, as these are two key elements of our cooperation. I am confident that this will be highlighted during our meetings within the framework of this visit. I believe we will find additional opportunities to strengthen cooperation between our countries," Klakočar Zupančič said.

Klakočar Zupančič emphasized her belief in the increasing role of parliamentary democracy and stated that regular meetings between parliaments are crucial in fostering and developing relationships.

Gashi expressed his appreciation to Slovenia, highlighting that it remains a strong and unwavering supporter of North Macedonia's EU integration aspirations.

"The political contribution (such as the Brdo-Brijuni process and the 2023 "non-paper") and Slovenia's technical support in strengthening administrative capacities to align our legislation with EU standards have confirmed the successful cooperation between our institutions and Slovenia's sincere commitment to EU enlargement in the Western Balkans," Gashi said, noting that this moment is an important step in strengthening interparliamentary relations and deepening diplomatic ties between the two countries.

The Speaker emphasized that as two countries committed to the values of peace, security, and democracy, their shared commitment within NATO and international organizations makes this partnership even more trustworthy. According to Gashi, it was established during the meeting that EU enlargement, at a time when the focus of our missions is on Ukraine, is not only a strategic goal but also a geopolitical interest.

Gashi emphasized that the meeting reaffirmed the strong bilateral relations between the Republic of North Macedonia and Slovenia, which, as he noted, have always been strong, based on sincere friendship, multidimensional cooperation, unwavering support, and continuous commitment to strengthening the ties between our citizens. 

As Gashi noted, the meeting was focused on economic perspective, new opportunities for cooperation and investment, emphasizing the importance of Slovenia as one of the largest investors in our country. The meeting also covered other areas, including current and potential projects in education, healthcare, culture, and digitalization, and highlighted student exchanges as one of the best practices that have contributed to the development of human resources and the country. Gashi also noted the role of our diaspora in Slovenia, which serves as a bridge of connection and an excellent foundation for achieving our shared goals.

In her speech, Klakočar Zupančič expressed her condolences following the tragedy in Kochani on March 16.

“The news about the devastating fire that claimed many young lives, who were just beginning their journey to Slovenia, deeply affected us. This is, above all, a heavy trial that has brought immense sorrow not only to the families and friends of the victims but to the entire society and the country as a whole. Therefore, I believe that through inner strength, solidarity, and mutual support, you will overcome these difficult times, and may the awareness that you are not alone in your grief bring you comfort,” Klakočar Zupančič said.

Gashi expressed his gratitude to Zupančič and the Republic of Slovenia for the significant assistance they offered following the tragedy in Kochani. 

“Following this visit, I can say with certainty that North Macedonia can rely on Slovenia, not just as an ally in NATO and a supporter of our integration but also as a sincere friend that fosters relations based on respect, understanding, and solidarity,” Gashi said.

Photo: MIA