Brussels, 12 July 2024 (MIA) - The country’s European dossier, the process of its accession to the European Union and the internal political dynamic were the main topics discussed at the meeting between Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Timcho Mucunski with the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, held on the sidelines of the NATO Summit in Washington.

According to a press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Mucunski stressed the country’s firm commitment to the implementation of reform processes, as well as the commitment to work to an accelerated Euro-integration process for the country.

According to the Foreign Minister, the country remains firmly committed to the Euro-integration process, especially in fulfilling the conditions and implementing reforms.

“He also stressed the need for accelerated integration through the participation in several configurations of the EU Council, increased assistance or progressive entry into the policies and benefits reserved for member states. In that context, the EU’s Growth Plan was welcomed, as well as our commitment to the Reform Agenda, which is important for the stability and prosperity of our citizens and the countries of the region,” the press release said. 

Mucunski noted that the country’s membership into the European Union remains the new Government’s top priority.

“The countries of the Western Balkans need to be proactive in terms of implementing reforms, while the EU needs to affirm its commitments and readiness to accept new member states. The preservation of the credibility of the enlargement process is of key importance, and at the moment, gradual integration ahead of formal membership in the Union is essential,” Mucunski said.

Mucunski and Borrell also touched upon European integration in a regional context, and they also assessed the modalities for boosting cooperation between the countries of the region and the EU.

“Furthermore, they welcomed the country’s complete alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, which is especially significant considering the ongoing geopolitical events,” the Ministry said in the press release. 

Earlier on Friday, in a post on social media platform X, Borrell wrote that Brussels wants to see North Macedonia move forward in the EU accession process.

"Happy to meet with new Foreign Minister of North Macedonia Timcho Mucunski. North Macedonia is our strong ally. Good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation have to remain a priority for the country. We want to see North Macedonia move forward in the EU accession process," said Borrell in the post.

FM Mucunski was part of the Macedonian delegation led by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski at the NATO Summit, also including Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski and Minister of Interior Panche Toshkovski. 

Photo: MFAFT