Skopje, 10 September 2024 (MIA) - Italy is investing in the accession of North Macedonia to the European Union, a country which we believe is very important and is a friend to Italy, said Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani at a joint press conference Tuesday with Foreign Minister Timcho Mucunski.

Asked whether Italy would support changes to North Macedonia’s EU negotiating framework, Tajani said the issue is being discussed, and he would wait for the proposals of North Macedonia.

“Discussions are ongoing, an agreement needs to be found with Brussels as well. We support dialogue, and from a strategic aspect we will continue to support the accession of the Republic of North Macedonia as soon as possible. Of course, an agreement requires two parties. North Macedonia sent important messages in response to Europe’s requests, so, North Macedonia will decide how it will continue in its dialogue with Brussels. However, certain requests need to be respected, but even if there are technical and legal confrontations between North Macedonia and the EU a certain solution will surely be found,” Tajani said.

Asked about “his mission” in the Western Balkans and his opinion on the desire of the Western Balkan countries to join the EU following his visits to Montenegro and North Macedonia, Tajani said the Western Balkan countries are European countries, and naturally they look towards the EU instead of China or other countries.

“It is clear they are turned towards the EU, however we shouldn’t make the mistake that would make the dream of thousands of young people from the Balkans disappear, young people who see Europe as their second homeland. If we don’t show that we want to extend our hand to those who seek it, if we say we don’t want you, that’s not acceptable,” Tajani said.

Italy, he added, has always had very close relations with the countries of the Balkans.

“We want to accelerate the pace of accession, and we are making efforts in the institutions in Brussels, and we hope that our voice is authoritative, and I believe that our efforts to the benefit of the Balkans aren’t only political efforts, but also qualitative and quantitative efforts with their own weight. If Italy wants that, I think our guarantee is big. That doesn’t mean nothing should be done and that the launched process shouldn’t be finished, but we should still extend a hand to those who want to be with the Europeans, especially our friends from the Balkans. The issues that aren’t solved should be solved, so that the European accession rights are respected. If we don’t do this, there will be someone else who will want to replace us. I am referring to Russia, to China and other parts of the world. I am referring to Turkey, however nothing should be left unfinished in politics,” Tajani said, stressing that Italy is convinced the Balkans is an integral part of the EU. 

Photo: MIA