Brussels, 6 December 2023 (MIA) - European Union membership plays a key role in the consolidation and promotion of Macedonian identity, offering its permanent protection in European and global terms, said Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski in remarks at the European Parliament debate on enlargement with Members of EP from the order of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D) on Wednesday.

"EU membership by 2030 is an ambitious goal but not an impossible one. The SDSM-led government has a sincere and clear intention to successfully complete the process. The Government has a clear plan and objective that represent an added generating force in societal reforms," said PM Kovachevski, who was accompanied by Deputy PM for European Affairs Bojan Marichikj.

According to him, EU accession is a complex process that requires continuity and strong will, but one that should be carried out not for the sake of the Union but the citizens of North Macedonia.

"We are prepared for this challenge and test, and we have the full support from the European Commission to speed up the pace of accession negotiations. European institutions, member-states, senior European officials are providing strong support in this regard, which is a clear message that we have friends and allies in the EU and that you see North Macedonia as a future member of the Union," added Kovachevski.

The PM referred to the completion of the screening process, which report will serve as a roadmap for acceleration of the society's transformation that is possible only through the negotiating process.

"The screening represents the best mechanism to implement reforms contributing to the strengthening of democracy and creating a mature society with strong and efficient institutions. The EC assessment has been excellent. Our preparedness and transposition of the European legislation is at a notable level," said Kovachevski.

He thanked the S&D MEPs for their support to the country's EU integration and said Macedonian lawmakers must put national objectives before their political and ideological differences.

"We have to make some decisions for the benefit of the Macedonian citizens, their future comes before all political and ideological differences. MPs are elected by the people and therefore must show constructiveness in the name of the people, in line with the Constitution, the laws and the rules of procedures," underlined Kovachevski.

During the discussion, MEPs spoke highly of North Macedonia's European progress, saying the country is a successful model of a multicultural society in the region and Europe, thus contributing to the acceleration of the EU integration process of the Western Balkans.

Debate participants concluded that social-democratic policies champion peace, democracy, rule of law and well-being in Europe for all countries that had been part of prior EU enlargements.

MEPs also highlighted the task before the Parliament of North Macedonia and the responsibility it must assume by adopting the constitutional amendments and ensuring the country's progress in realization of the European agenda and full-fledged EU membership.

They wished Macedonian MPs to join the European Parliament as soon as possible, since the country belongs to the European family and will undoubtedly be part of the Union by 2030.

Photo: Government