Skopje, 29 June 2026 (MIA) - The momentum for European Union enlargement is now and it should be seized, said Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys after a meeting with Macedonian counterpart Timcho Mucunski in Skopje on Monday.

"I'll be very clear on this. The momentum must be seized. We all understand that EU enlargement is a geopolitical necessity. The major factor why we are so focused is the war against Ukraine. There was a pause in the process, there were discussions whether this is necessary, if we are ready or not, whether we need an institutional reform in the meantime. Now there is a clear geopolitical understanding that we must move forward," FM Budrys told a joint press conference.

The Lithuanian FM said that despite the challenges and bilateral issues, the EU enlargement process must continue, based on merits, with the goal of full-fledged membership.

"We must stick to the merit-based approach. This means that progress must be measured through the European Commission reports, and I am really pleased to see North Macedonia making progress, as shown by the documents. Then we need to deliver on what we have promised each other and move on. In parallel, we should tactically solve all situations that might emerge in the meantime. The path won't be easy, but now is the time to move forward. The goal is full-fledged membership and not standing on the side or looking through the window," said Budrys.

Regarding Macedonia's position and the need for specific steps, he said the country must seize the moment.

"I cannot recall a time when this issue was so politically focused on the region, with the real intention to move forward. A proof of this is the progress that some countries in the region are making as we speak. That is why I feel you should seize this moment. Let's be realistic - if there are no steps on both sides, then we lose another half or entire year," said Budrys.

On the constitutional changes, the Lithuanian FM said the decision was for the country to make.

"Is there a formal deadline? This is up to you. No one is pressuring your sovereign decision. This depends on you, your leadership, and your people," he added.

Budrys said no one can provide guarantees when it comes to political processes.

"The essence lies in having the support from the majority of member states, support for the enlargement principles, and the merit-based approach. You get what has been agreed upon and included in the reference framework. We now have the set of tools and mechanisms to move forward. Of course, no one can guarantee what might emerge today, tomorrow, or the day after. Furthermore, we might not hold this office any longer. But when the rules are agreed upon in advance, then it is easier to move forward. Therefore, I would stick to the enlargement based on rules and merits, and I would expect the countries that respect those rules and are interested in the process to finish their part of the job," said the FM.

Photo: MIA and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade