Skopje, 8 July 2024 (MIA) - Justice Minister Igor Filkov met Monday with Head of the EU Delegation, Ambassador David Geer, discussing ongoing and planned reform steps in the judiciary, the European integration processes, the 2024-2028 judicial system reform strategy, the situation with the Judicial Council, prisons, as well as the fight against corruption and organized crime.

"As regards the legislative agenda that needs to be implemented in the coming period, a wide public debate is to be opened with all stakeholders to hear the opinions of experts and the public in order to arrive at the best reform solutions in realizing the Government's program goals," the Ministry of Justice said in a press release.  

Minister Filkov pointed out that in the past 10 days since he took office, he has been briefed on the negotiating process in terms of Chapter 23 "Judiciary and Fundamental Rights", the Growth Plan and the seven goals of the Reform Agenda, the inclusion of non-governmental organizations in discussions, as well as activities related to the implementation of three ongoing projects, one from the EU and two from the USAID.

Filkov highlighted commitment in terms of implementing the reform agenda as the country's priority, with EU support remaining crucial for the country's stability, also expressing hope for continuing bilateral cooperation in the spirit of common values.

The EU delegation led by Ambassador Geer welcomed the commitment to the reform agenda, stressing full support for the European integration process, as well as readiness for continuous cooperation and ensuring all necessary assistance for the implementation of the key reform agenda.

Photo: Ministry of Justice