Brussels, 17 July 2025 (MIA) - Enlargement must not become a hostage to identity politics, it must stick to the Copenhagen criteria – clear, fair, and applicable to all, said Minister of European Affairs Orhan Murtezani after his participation in the EU enlargement forum “Building an Inclusive Future in an Enlarged EU: The Role of Social Dialogue, Civil Society and Youth Engagement” on Thursday.

“North Macedonia is ready to continue down the European path in this spirit and with renewed national commitment. Today’s debates once again confirmed the obvious yet often overlooked truth that the enlargement process is not a geopolitical tool, but a moral commitment. Commitment to democracy, dialogue and the dignity of every European citizen, regardless of borders, history or the language they speak,” Murtezani said at a joint press conference with the President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) Oliver Röpke, and the Montenegrin Minister of European Affairs, Maida Gorčević.

Murtezani stressed that in the accession process, the country has walked a long path marked by perseverance, reforms, and an unwavering belief that the European Union, above all, is a Union of values. “However, there are moments when we are reminded that principles must be defended with equal determination as borders,” he said.

“We will continue to provide our contribution through the implementation of reforms, building institutions and nurturing social dialogue. At the same time, we firmly believe that the European Union, which we believe is built on justice, respect and inclusion, will also continue to contribute towards our shared European future,” Murtezani said.

Murtezani also spoke about the Western Balkans Growth Plan, stressing that not only does it help in the fight against Euro-skepticism, but also allows the citizens of the Western Balkan countries to feel some of the benefits that were previously exclusive to the citizens of the EU member states.

“I think this will represent further support and political capital for EU integration. I would just like to add that gradual integration is important, but it can never serve as a replacement for full-fledged membership,” Murtezani said.

At the press conference, the President of the EESC Oliver Röpke, stressed that EU enlargement is not only a geopolitical strategy, but a democratic promise, and it should encourage the participation of young people in the civil sector and in real dialogue.

“Today we had clear commitments from our partners from Montenegro, North Macedonia and others and these aren’t just political signals, but also moral and social tasks. If this process wants to maintain its credibility, it must be fair, merit-based and predictable,” Röpke said.

He said the EESC supports Montenegro’s goal to join the EU by 2028 and hopes the same will be done by Albania and North Macedonia by the beginning of the next decade.

According to the President of the EESC, the forum was not just a formal debate, but also an attempt to provide an open and inclusive approach to the enlargement process, with the active inclusion of civil society and strong social dialogue.

“We are convinced that accession cannot only be negotiated behind closed doors, but it must also include those who carry the tempo of reforms – civil society, social partners, and especially the younger generation,” Röpke said.

Montenegrin Minister Gorčević said Montenegro’s accession to the EESC in February 2024 was a significant milestone on its European path, not only deepening cooperation, but also affirming the commitment to inclusive policymaking and the promotion of shared European values.

She highlighted her belief that social dialogue and the engagement of young people are the pillars of a resilient and democratic Europe, which is why, she said, Montenegro has taken efforts to ensure the civil sector is actively involved in the EU negotiations.

“Montenegro is approaching the enlargement process with seriousness, maturity and decisiveness, with all negotiation chapters open and seven already closed, and with a clear goal to conclude negotiations by the end of 2026 and achieve full-fledged membership by 2028. We remain firmly led by the principle of merit and by the shared vision of a united, peaceful and prosperous Europe,” Gorčević said.

Photo: Screenshot