Brussels, 20 April 2022 (MIA) – After failing to respond yesterday, the European Commission provided Wednesday a brief comment on the opening of Bulgarian cultural club “Vancho Mihailov” in Bitola, MIA reports from Brussels. MIA asked the EC to comment on the visit of the Bulgarian government delegation to the club and the statements over a new blockade to the EU process due to bilateral disputes, but the response only referred to the second part of the question. “We are following closely the developments as well as responses to them. We are aware that the opening of the Bulgarian Cultural Club in Bitola named after a figure who is perceived as highly controversial in North Macedonia, has caused a strong reaction amongst citizens,” says the EC. It adds that respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights are fundamental values upon which the EU is built. “We recall the importance of good neighbourly relations. We encourage Bulgaria and North Macedonia to find a mutually acceptable solution to pending bilateral issues as a matter of priority,” says the Commission.