Skopje, 17 January 2022 (MIA) – We’re not disputing the identity and language in the Republic of North Macedonia in any way, Bulgarian Prime Minister Kiril Petkov has stated. Asked about his position on the Macedonian language and nation, Petkov said Bulgaria was the first country in the world that had recognized the then Republic of Macedonia as an independent country 30 years ago. “When a country is independent, we’re not disputing the identity and language spoken in the Republic of North Macedonia. It is your identity right. No one is disputing it,” the Bulgarian PM said in an interview with Sitel TV aired Monday evening. We, he noted, should establish mutual ties which won’t depend on who is in power in North Macedonia or in Bulgaria. “Also, we should set clear rules, that for example hate speech is impermissible. Any attempt should be thwarted. Hate speech against a neighbor with whom you are trying to have good relations should be condemned.” To improve the relations, Petkov recommended, the two countries should set up working groups to discuss concrete issues, such as infrastructure. “Firstly, we should have a flight connecting Sofia and Skopje, because it is needed. Secondly, complete the railway which is being built for 140 years. These are the things that can trigger changes,” said the PM. Over the years, he added, both sides have been talking a lot, promising a lot but failing to deliver. “We should demonstrate a concrete step toward success. I’m taking with me the transport minister during my first visit, because I don’t want these topics to be discussed for another three weeks. Let’s agree the Sofia-Skopje flight as early as tomorrow, why not? This is the approach that should be applied. Once we’ve done it, we have the first achievement and the second, the third one will follow,” Petkov told TV Sitel. Bulgarian PM Petkov will lead a governmental delegation during a day-long visit to Skopje on Tuesday, where he is due to have talks with his counterpart Dimitar Kovachevski.