Skopje, 21 November 2023 (MIA) - The blockade has a name and surname at this moment, and that is VMRO-DPMNE and its MPs, Marichikj told reporters on Tuesday.

Marichikj emphasized that the obstruction, a conscious political decision, is hindering the progress of negotiations for the country.

He assessed that there are currently no prospects for adopting constitutional changes, but the ruling coalition is not giving up. It will continue until the last day of this parliamentary composition to negotiate and persuade colleagues from VMRO-DPMNE not to block the country and to actively demonstrate their genuine support for the EU.

According to Marichikj, encouraging messages are expected from the EU Summit in December, but nothing contrary to what is outlined in the Negotiating Framework and the commitments assigned to the country last year.

“The screening will be completed in the first week of December. We are preparing and will submit the necessary roadmaps as mandated by the end of the screening in the first cluster, and we will pause unless the constitutional changes are finalized. The blockade has a name and surname at this moment, and that is VMRO-DPMNE and its MPs. However, as there are currently no indications that this will happen, we should anticipate a stoppage. The ruling coalition is not giving up. It will continue until the last day of this parliamentary composition to negotiate and persuade colleagues from VMRO-DPMNE not to block the country and to actively demonstrate their genuine support for the EU,” Marichikj stated, responding to journalist questions after the visit to the Gjorche Petrov municipality.

Concerning the upcoming EU campaign set to be implemented next year, Marichikj advised journalists to seek details from the Government.

“The campaign is coordinated by the Government, and detailed information should be sought there. I believe that every discussion on how European funds can assist in every municipality and settlement is crucial because utilizing IPA funds for investments makes a difference. Our decision is to discuss and inform about both the existing and new projects, I think there is no harm in talking more about it every day because our strategic determination is there, and we should maximize our gains from that process. Now we have a new Growth Plan, and both businesses and citizens will need to show interest,” Marichikj said.

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