Ludva: No progress on EU path without reforms
Skopje, 14 October 2022 (MIA) – The Czech Republic has always been a strong supporter of North Macedonia on its European path, and we are happy that it was during our Presidency the country started the EU negotiations, which is a long and difficult process. Reforms are the basis of this process, and if you don’t implement them, you cannot move forward on the EU path, Czech Ambassador to the country, Jaroslav Ludva, whose country currently holds the EU Presidency, told reporters on Friday.
He stressed that the country has an essential need to continue with reforms. According to him, there are two important elements, one of them is the reforms, and the other is a constructive political dialogue, and that is what’s essential. Ludva added that everyone should be aware of the importance of the European path, which is a long one and everyone should cooperate with each other.
Regarding how optimistic the government's agenda is for North Macedonia to join the EU in 2030, he said no one can guarantee anything, but everything is possible.
According to him, there are more options on the table, and eight years is a reasonable time frame, given that some countries have negotiated longer and some not so long.
Ludva also said that sometimes the political situation changes, but in the case of North Macedonia, he added, it is important for the country to continue with reforms. “Reforms are the foundation, if you don't implement them, you cannot move forward,” the Czech Ambassador stressed.
He noted that North Macedonia is making good progress with reforms so far, but must maintain the pace. “As you move forward on the EU path, it will be more difficult to face further blockades on the path.”
Ludva said the Czech Embassy will organize several conferences on North Macedonia and good neighborly relations, particularly to improve the dialogue with Bulgaria, together with the Czech Embassy in Sofia.
“We will hold several conferences, one in Skopje, one in Sofia, and one in the border towns of Petrich and Strumica, focused on improving the dialogue, better neighborly relations, exchange of experience with Bulgaria, the advantages of the common market between the two neighboring countries, particularly in the field of trade and investment. The first conference will be held on Monday in Sofia, the second in Skopje on October 20, and the remaining two in Petrich on October 31 and in Strumica on November 1,” said Ludva.
He expects the conferences to bring better mutual understanding, good neighborly relations, and particularly exchange of experience in several areas. The focus will be put on mutual cooperation between non-governmental institutions.
Asked what would he say of the current relations between Skopje and Sofia, Ludva said nothing in the world is perfect, but everything can always be better, adding that he sees room for cooperation, and attempts will be made to improve it even further.
