Skopje, 9 May 2022 (MIA) – We had an open and sincere discussion over the future of the Western Balkans in the European Union, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine. France is interested in discussing enlargement, Deputy PM for European Affairs Bojan Marichikj said in Paris on Monday. Deputy PM Marichikj told TV24 this is not a guarantee that negotiations will start but a good sign that North Macedonia has France’s attention, the Secretariat for European Affairs said in a press release. Marichikj says the Paris visit and participation in event “Balkan Dialogues” organized by the French Senate has reaffirmed the importance of continuing the integration process and avoiding further blockades. “We know it is important for us and the EU to use the French Presidency and make a breakthrough. We have a strong case, we did everything possible and we are prepared for the start of the talks as soon as possible,” notes Marichikj. The Deputy PM says there have been no official mediators in the Bulgaria talks until now but every EU Presidency provided its contribution and invested efforts into a solution, including Germany, Portugal and Slovenia, whereas North Macedonia now has France’s attention. “There is will to make further efforts, but we will see how and in what form over the coming period,” adds Marichikj. On relations with Bulgaria, he reiterates North Macedonia’s readiness to resume principled talks while protecting the nation’s identity and adhering to the European values, the objective being a dignified and sustainable solution that would open the doors for the start of the negotiations. “We have clear positions that we want to come to an agreement through a comprehensive document that clearly states the obligations of both countries, including the steps to be undertaken to lift the veto and after,” says Marichikj and adds that the opportunity must be seized since each delay further diminishes the possibility for a solution.