Skopje, 1 December 2023 (MIA) - Defence Minister Slavjanka Petrovska stressed that constitutional changes are the only way to proceed on the path to the European Union and that, in doing so, the Macedonian identity will be further strengthened.

“Constitutional changes are the only way to continue the path toward European integration for our country. As numerous representatives from the EU and ambassadors of EU member states have stated, there is no other option. I believe it's now in the hands of domestic actors on the political stage in our country to reach the final decision," Minister Petrovska said in an interview with 24Info late on Friday.

According to Petrovska, as reported by the Ministry of Defence, the constitutional changes guarantee and strengthen the Macedonian identity.

“With this amendment, we affirm that we recognize Bulgarians as a minority in the Republic of North Macedonia, and the Macedonian people, in conjunction with others, are a state-forming people, and the positions of the Macedonian language are strengthened,” said Minister Petrovska.

For efforts to exert influence from third countries in North Macedonia, Petrovska stated that these attempts have been recognized, and they are losing their strength, thanks to the members of the security-intelligence community who coordinate their activities successfully with NATO allies.

Petrovska, as stated by the Ministry of Defence, emphasized that these third countries have ill intentions towards the state and continue their influences without ceasing.

"The influence, as I mentioned, exists, but it's positive that it is decreasing, primarily due to the activities we undertake, and we will continue to do so in the coming period,” Petrovska added.

"I am aware, and the public is aware, that especially the Russian Federation does not want to see the Republic of North Macedonia as an EU member state. However, it remains for us, the progressive forces in the country, to secure that path to the EU for our country in the future," Petrovska said.

In terms of support for Ukraine in its right to defend itself, the minister underscored that North Macedonia remains open for this support to continue in the future.

"Republic of North Macedonia remains steadfast in its support and assistance to Ukraine. Recently, following the onset of Russian aggression, we had the opportunity to conduct training for Ukrainian army members here in the Republic of North Macedonia for the first time. Of course, in the coming period, the door of the Republic of North Macedonia will remain open to support Ukraine, as long as it is necessary,” Petrovska noted.

Photo: Ministry of Defence