Ljubljana, 18 May 2026 (MIA) - If the European Union is founded on the constitutional principles of national and cultural identity, citizens' dignity and integrity, we ask for their observance, said President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova on Monday.

President Siljanovska told a joint press conference with Slovenian counterpart Natasha Pirc Musar in Ljubljana that the Bulgarian veto is not a precedent but can be repeated in the future.

"Therefore, EU defends its constitutionality and its own philosophy by defending the fundamental European principles and values in our case," said Siljanovska Davkova.

According to her, EU enlargement is not only an issue of strengthening the Union but a security issue as well.

"I think that we are sufficiently prepared, considering that we received the candidate status in 2005, for a chance to reform and Europeanize through the Growth Plan, rather than re-Balkanize yet again," said Siljanovska Davkova.

The President reiterated that the country wants equal status not privileges.

"We want to start the accession negotiations like all other countries, and we do not run away from the veto if it is tied to the Copenhagen criteria. There are various ways to start the negotiations. The EU has shown its creativity on many occasions," noted Siljanovska Davkova.

Photo: Gordana Siljanovska Davkova Facebook