Skopje, 3 May 2023 (MIA) — The freedom of the press is one of the most important requirements of a democratic society. For countries that have opened negotiations with the EU, like North Macedonia has, this is an even greater challenge, Deputy Prime Minister for European Affairs Bojan Marichikj posted on Facebook on World Press Freedom Day.

"Great news for all of us who are fighting for the freedom of expression and the right to information: Macedonian media are the freest in the region," Deputy PM Marichikj said.

"This year we ranked better than last year, rising 19 places in the latest Reporters Without Borders [World Press Freedom Index] report. But despite our progress, we still have work to do and challenges to overcome," Marichikj wrote.

He said the country needed to remain focused on improving press freedom as one of the fundamental values and a key element for successful negotiations with the EU.

"We are on the right track. We are getting better and positioning ourselves among the best," Marichikj added. mr/