Skopje, 25 August 2023 (MIA) – The fact that we’ve been leading a debate for a long time means that this is an exceptionally important issue. If this wasn’t a decision that defines the future, then probably the debate wouldn’t be as long either, nor as detailed. The process will continue, and it will be concluded successfully for the citizens and for the country, said Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski on Friday, asked how long the constitutional amendments process will last and when the vote will be held.

“This only confirms that this is an exceptionally important question, and the process will last for as long as it is necessary, so we can make the right decision to fulfill the goals and vision of the citizens of this country,” said Kovachevski in answer to a journalist’s question at a joint press conference with U.S. Department of State's Deputy Assistant Secretary, Gabriel Escobar.

The PM said the citizens deserve to live in a society that shares the same standards as the EU member states.

“When the process began, I had a longer speech in Parliament, during which I spoke about the goals we’ve set, precisely about the European and Euro-Atlantic integrations, as a connective tissue for the citizens of this country, with their diversities. Anyone who is a part of a market of half a billion people, the wealthiest market in the world, alongside the U.S. market, will be able to progress. That’s why our citizens deserve this, the process will continue, debates will be held, and it will be concluded successfully for the citizens and the country,” added Kovachevski.

Asked if he is an optimist that an agreement could be reached, Kovachevski said he is a rational optimist.

“That means that I believe in the fulfillment of the goal, and I am working to that end. The message that I will send to the MPs in Parliament once again is that they are representatives of the citizens. The citizens are clearly stating that they want to be a part of the EU. The MPs should be a part of the European idea for North Macedonia. They have taken the responsibility and honor to represent the citizens in Parliament, and tomorrow will have their names written in history as the individuals who provided a European future for the country. I am proud of all MPs in our Parliament that played a part in the adoption of important, strategic and difficult decisions for the country,” said Kovachevski.

Photo: MIA