Skopje, 2 February 2023 (MIA) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed Thursday its regret over the declaration by the Bulgarian National Assembly over alleged "escalation of aggressive anti-Bulgarian activities in the Republic of North Macedonia", which was adopted earlier today, prior to the Assembly dissolution. The MFA notes that the declaration does not correspond to the agreed policy for enhancement of bilateral relations through mutual respect and points to the absence of will for its implementation.

Considering the timing of the declaration's adoption, the MFA said in a press release, it only benefits provocateurs, whose aim is to cause political activities that have a negative impact on bilateral relations, thus undermining the efforts to return to the constructive path and fostering of partnership relations.

Every act of provocation by any side, accidentally or on purpose, is currently becoming a part of the scenarios for escalation of the situation, and as such, we consider it to be contrary to the declared commitments for a return to the diplomatic agenda, where it belongs, reads the press release.

On the content of the declaration, the MFA says North Macedonia has demonstrated, through specific projects and activities, its commitment to the implementation of the Friendship Treaty, whereas "the allegations over systemic problems related to the rights and security of ethnic Bulgarians in North Macedonia go against the institutionally established facts by relevant international organizations that monitor the implementation of human rights and rights of all ethnic communities in North Macedonia, including the Bulgarian."

It also recalls that the MFA has said on a number of occasions that the Law on Foundations and Associations is not aimed against the association of any ethnic community but against the principle of civic associations named after controversial figures that provoke not only ethnic Macedonians but also all citizens living in North Macedonia.

In the same context, there is no justified grounds or serious argument to relate the work of the Historical Commission with the changes to the Law on Associations and Foundations. The Commission will continue its work based on scientifically confirmed facts and this has nothing in common with the conditions under which civic associations and foundations are set up, reads the press release.

We remain on the position, the MFA adds, that institutions responded properly in the case involving the physical assault on Macedonian national Hristijan Pendikov in Ohrid, the perpetrators have been detained, the investigation is ongoing, whereas the President, the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister have all condemned the attack at public events. In addition, FM Osmani paid an urgent visit to Sofia and the injured Pendikov, thus demonstrating the state's intention to care for all of its citizens.

Therefore, we consider the numerous statements about this case, now part of the Declaration, as exaggerated and unfounded, which in no way correspond to reality. At the same time, we would like to use this opportunity to call for restraint from further decisions and actions that seriously harm bilateral relations and the countries' citizens, considering the spirit of European values and freedoms, says the MFA.