Ljubljana, 3 April 2023 (MIA) - North Macedonia's Euro-integration must not stop and I believe reason will prevail among all political stakeholders in the country and they will understand the historic significance of this moment, Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob told a joint press conference with Macedonian counterpart Dimitar Kovachevski on Monday, MIA reports from Ljubljana.

PM Golob said the process of constitutional changes is difficult but one that must happen, noting it is a historic chance that has nothing to do with partisan affiliation, while highlighting that North Macedonia's Euro-integration process must not stop by introducing additional bilateral issues on the agenda.

"I believe this is a difficult task but I hope reason will prevail among all political stakeholders in North Macedonia and they will understand the historic significance of this moment that the process must be completed as soon as possible. This is a historic opportunity that has nothing to do with partisan affiliation but the future of the entire Macedonian people. Parties must take this into consideration. Slovenia will help in any way possible," said Golob.

We stand firm in our position, he added, that the ongoing process of negotiations should not stop with the introduction of additional bilateral issues on the agenda.

"We will insist on moving forward with those processes that have already been agreed on the constitutional changes and no additional requests in the process should be introduced. This aspect is very important because, unfortunately, as we have experienced ourselves, neighbors are trying to get something more from the country. We will stand firm on this position and not agree to it because of the impact of the European propaganda," said Golob.

He expressed hope that all conditions will be met by the end of November.

"North Macedonia is one of the more significant factors of stability in the Western Balkans and the only way to stabilize the region is its EU accession," underlined Golob.

PM Kovachevski said the citizens of North Macedonia have recognized their role in the regional and European context.

"I strongly believe we will remain committed and successful on the European path. Slovenia's support on our road to the EU is not only declarative but also specific and practical," said Kovachevski.

He added that North Macedonia is a model for settlement of open bilateral issues.

Kovachevski and Golob signed a joint declaration on strengthening bilateral cooperation and agreed on the strengthening of bilateral cooperation through regular political dialogue and an intergovernmental session in the course of 2023, if possible.

They agreed on enhancement of the economic cooperation, especially in the field of telecommunications, organic food, energy, tourism, digitization.

The countries want to reach trade exchange in the amount of about EUR 500 million. Statistical data shows that Slovenia is the fifth-largest investor in North Macedonia, with over 40 companies operating in the country and employing over 2,500 people.

Photo: Government