Brussels, 28 November 2023 (MIA) - For me, it is crucial to choose a presidential candidate who, above all, shares the values of the majority of citizens supporting our EU membership, Interior Minister Oliver Spasovski said in an interview with MIA in Brussels regarding the possibility of a joint presidential candidate of the ruling coalition.

“Based on that, we should choose a really excellent candidate, who would also be an excellent president of the country. So, you know, personal ambitions, personal combinations at this point are irrelevant. It is important where the country will move and what we will offer the citizens as a future,” Spasovski noted.

Regarding the possibility of him becoming a presidential candidate, Spasovski emphasized that the candidacy process has not even begun, and at this moment, he is not considering that direction at all.

“I absolutely believe that we must come to an agreement on the level of principles for every next step that is ahead of us,” he said.

He said that the highlighting of a common presidential candidate for the 'pro-European front' would represent an additional value for the country itself and its progress. This is because it is crucial which concept will lead the country in the next period.

Spasovski emphasized the need for a pro-European front with a clear vision, knowing the direction for the Republic of North Macedonia. He said that there is no alternative to the European path, and the opposition party lacks a clear vision in this entire process.

“Discussion is centred on the presidential candidate and the parliamentary elections strategy. There are options, and these choices need to be analysed and considered. The primary focus should be on what is best for the country,” he added.

Regarding the potential date for the presidential and parliamentary elections, Spasovski said that there are legal deadlines for their organization. Prior to that, negotiations are taking place among political entities to incorporate all remarks from the OSCE/ODIHR into the Election Code. The objective is to address any weaknesses, ensuring that the electoral process proceeds in a fair and democratic manner.

“Undoubtedly, as part of the entire process, there are discussions among political entities. Thus, I believe that when decisions are reached, they will be announced to the public. It is essential to have fair, democratic elections - elections that enable citizens to make decisions about the direction of the Republic of North Macedonia in the upcoming period,” Spasovski noted, who took part Tuesday in the International Conference on a Global Alliance to counter migrant smuggling at the European Commission in Brussels.

Photo: MIA archive