Washington, 16 February 2022 (MIA) – It would be a disaster if we fail to ensure progress and allow Bulgaria to stand in the way of North Macedonia towards Europe, United States Senator Chris Murphy (D) told hearing “Western Balkans: Supporting Peace and Prosperity” of the Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday. Senator Murphy urged the U.S. to play an active role in the North Macedonia-Bulgaria talks, making it clear to Sofia it is in its interest, as a Balkan country, to ensure there is a path for North Macedonia and Albania leading to the EU, reports Voice of America in Macedonian language. Murphy asked U.S. Special Representative for the Western Balkans, Gabriel Escobar, what the United States could do more so that Bulgaria lifts the veto and whether talks between the two new governments have produced results. “Both Bulgaria and North Macedonia are our valued NATO allies. We have always hoped they could solve their differences through a constructive dialogue and talks in good will. Both governments have said this is taking place, we support this and hope a conclusion can be reached within a reasonable period,” said Escobar. Earlier, Escobar said North Macedonia and Albania have implemented significant reforms and paid a high price, while deserving to make progress in the accession process. He added that the long-standing American diplomatic engagement focused on the Western Balkans’ Euro-Atlantic integration. “A stronger Balkans integrated in a strong Europe means a stronger trans-Atlantic community,” noted Escobar.