Skopje, 28 December 2021 (MIA) – SDSM leader Dimitar Kovachevski met Tuesday with United States Ambassador Kate Marie Byrnes, discussing a number of current topics in the interest of both countries, cooperation, Euro-Atlantic integration, challenges related to the health and energy crises, and formation of the new government. Kovachevski thanked the U.S. for its continued support to the Republic of North Macedonia and its citizens, saying that as SDSM leader and PM-designate he will be guided by the principles of unity, responsibility, commitment and efficiency, standards also required from his associates, SDSM said in a press release. “I go by the principle of zero tolerance for corruption at all levels, especially for high-level public office holders. Therefore, I will work on strengthening the capacity of institutions in the fight against corruption,” noted Kovachevski. On the Bulgaria issue and North Macedonia’s Euro-integration process, the SDSM leader said a mutually acceptable solution is needed to lift the blockade and the country to start the deserved EU accession negotiations. “We have met all criteria for the start of the talks. We remain committed to finding a solution with neighboring Bulgaria so that we resume on our European path. After elected PM, I will invite Mr. Petkov to visit our country. The most important thing for us is to make a plan, together with the Bulgarian government, for the purpose of removing the blockade as soon as possible, of course through a mutually acceptable solution. We have to remain committed and engaged in the talks through a sincere approach. If the Bulgarian authorities share this approach, I believe it is possible to reach compromise on open issues,” said Kovachevski. Ambassador Byrnes congratulated Kovachevski on his election as SDSM leader, saying the United States would continue to be North Macedonia’s biggest strategic partner, both in the reform and Euro-integration processes, reads the press release.