Skopje, 18 February 2024 (MIA) - The prospects of Western Balkan countries' integration into the European Union and the possibilities for unblocking the process were central themes of the ‘Spotlight: Balkans’ panel discussion at the 60th Munich Security Conference, where President Stevo Pendarovski delivered remarks.

The panel discussion also featured the participation of the President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović, the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, and the US Senator Jeanne Shaheen, who is a member of the United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

Regarding the prospects for changing the Constitution as an obstacle to furthering our integration, President Pendarovski stated that it won't be possible until the elections are held because the country is already in the so-called technical phase with the formation of the caretaker government, whose sole task is to organize fair and democratic elections, Pendarovski’s Office said in a press release.

President Pendarovski pointed out the decline in interest in the EU in the region, citing the Macedonian example, that even after difficult compromises, the country has not seen progress in EU integration.

He added that the European Union has not been a matter of the day for years throughout the entire Western Balkans region, not just in North Macedonia, indicating that the blockade on the path to the EU brings polarization even among Macedonian citizens themselves regarding the EU, not just on an ethnic basis, reads the press release.

The speakers on the panel pointed out the need to ensure a clear European perspective for EU candidate countries, which will positively impact the overall stability and prosperity of the region.

During the event, the speakers emphasized the crucial role of the United States in supporting the European integration efforts and advancing the reform agenda in the region.

Photo: Pendarovski’s Office