Brussels, 12 July 2022 (MIA) - The European Commission has strongly reacted after reports by several media outlets that civil society organizations that are critical of the French proposal for the opening of EU negotiations with North Macedonia will have their EU funds suspended, MIA's Brussels correspondent reports. Asked whether the allegations are true or founded in any way, the Commission spokespeople said the EU's executive body has never threatened due to different opinions. "These are ungrounded allegations. Civil society is a crucial component of any democratic system and a key partner in the EU accession process of North Macedonia, EU spokespeople told MIA in a written statement. The Commission has always demonstrated strong commitment to supporting civil society, they said. "Not only the Commission would not consider suspending funding for opinions expressed by CSOs members but such course of action would not be in line with the IPA III regulation and would therefore not be possible," added the statement. IPA III regulation is part of the EU accession process. Recently, several media outlets shared an information alleging that top diplomats in Brussels were displeased with the fact that several organizations and think tanks have voiced a critical view of the French proposal and that these organizations were facing suspension of EU funds. Refuting the allegations, the European Commission mentions that the rules for obtaining EU funds are clear and subjected to strict monitoring.