Skopje, 27 February 2026 (MIA) - The bilateralization of the European integration won’t be a one-off example and the member states of the European Union should prevent it, said President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova at a joint press conference Friday with Albanian counterpart President Bajram Begaj, who is on official visit to North Macedonia.

President Siljanovska-Davkova stressed that the country is firmly committed to joining the EU and noted that she sees the progress of Montenegro and Albania as “European steps for the entire Western Balkans”.

“The way we get to membership is through reforms, especially the rule of law, fight against corruption, and strengthening democratic institutions. And we all agree that this is not something that is just connected to the Copenhagen criteria, but something that is also important for our Europeanization,” President Siljanovska-Davkova said.

The President stressed that the “bilateralization” of the EU accession process won’t be a one-off example and the EU member states should take serious steps to prevent it.

“Placing issues of identity and history on the agenda will only complicate the accession process of countries that naturally belong in the EU,” Siljanovska-Davkova said.

The President assessed the country’s relations with Albania as excellent and friendly, with no open disputes and with a basis for greater cooperation in all areas.

“For me, today’s meeting represents an impetus for a more intensive bilateral cooperation, and it represents an additional investment in the promotion of our friendship and mutual support,” President Siljanovska-Davkova said.

Albanian President Begaj said relations between the two countries should serve as an example in the region, particularly when it comes to cooperation. He also highlighted Corridor VIII as “a symbol of the new era of cooperation”, while noting its importance for European security.

Begaj also spoke about the key role of the Albanians in North Macedonia, pointing to respect for the Ohrid Framework Agreement, as well as respect for the rights of the Macedonians in Albania. “This,” he said, “is a firm bridge of cooperation between the two countries.”

Photo: MIA