Skopje, 17 March 2023 (MIA) — European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi said he was optimistic that North Macedonia would join the European Union by 2030.

Speaking at a press conference held together with Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Josep Borrell in Skopje, EU Commissioner Várhelyi pointed out that he was always optimistic about EU membership because it was part of his job description.

“The answer is yes. I am absolutely optimistic,” he said, adding that the country could join the bloc even earlier than 2030 or maybe later, depending on the implemented reforms.

He said the EU had given clear, strong signals that enlargement was a priority. He noted that if North Macedonia met the requirements for accession, the EU would take positive decisions.

Commissioner Várhelyi said the Stabilization and Association Council’s meeting, held in Skopje for the first time, showed the high level of engagement and strong ties the EU had with North Macedonia. 

“What this meeting symbolizes is that North Macedonia will become an EU member state,” he stressed. mr/