Skopje, 19 September 2025 (MIA) - The process of European accession is a process of implementing reforms and transformation. But the reforms required by the European Union should not be seen as restrictive, nor as an obligation to be implemented just because the EU demands it, they should instead be seen as something good and positive for the country that benefits all citizens, said French Ambassador Christophe Le Rigoleur on Friday.

In answer to a journalist’s question after the signing of a memorandum of cooperation with the Ministry of Public Administration, Le Rigoleur said France is closely monitoring the implementation of reforms in the country.  

The Ambassador did not want to provide his assessment of the current situation in the country and say whether he believes it has realistic chances of progressing on its European path. Instead, he pointed to the European Commission’s upcoming Progress Report.

“We are closely monitoring the implementation of reforms. The European Commission’s Progress Report on all candidate countries will be published soon, including for this country. Let’s wait and see what it contains. The essential thing in which I deeply believe is the following: the reforms required by the EU should not be seen as restrictive, nor as an obligation to be implemented just because the EU demands it, they should instead be seen as something good and positive for the country that benefits all citizens,” the Ambassador said. 

Photo: MIA