Skopje, 9 May 2026 (MIA) - In a speech Saturday at an event marking May 9 – Victory over Fascism Day and Europe Day, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski stressed that Europe is the only path for the country, noting the country has no alternative future or opportunity for success other than integration within the European Union.

Mickoski said Europe is not just geography but also a value, he underscored the country must discuss lasting solutions that will allow it to move forward, instead of ones that will leave “great burdens” to future generations.

He reiterated that he would never “trade identity or dignity in exchange for any personal or political benefits”. 

The Prime Minister said the idea of European unity rose from the destruction of the Second World War, “not as a political project of bureaucrats, but as a civilizational testament – that nations will never again destroy each other. A Europe of solidarity, values, and principles.”

“And what are principles if not rules that should apply to everyone, norms that should bring prosperity and the future? We believed and still believe that Europe is our only path. Our homeland has no other future and chance for success other than integration within the European Union. Yet, at the same time, let us not lie to ourselves – there is also a bitter experience from many cancellations, obstacles, and unreasonable disputes on our path. It is deeply frustrating when the principles are broken precisely on the backs of those who are looking for principles and a fair chance. Just as it is discouraging to see indifference by much larger countries toward these unjust episodes faced by our people and our country,” Mickoski said. 

Mickoski stressed that Europe represents a belief in human dignity, democracy, the rule of law, respect for diversity, and the right of every nation to freely step on its path.

“I understand that Europe today is once again facing challenges. Wars, divisions, extremism, economic uncertainty, and a crisis of trust. At a time when the language of hatred can once again be heard, it is our duty to be a voice of reason, stability, and unity. We must communicate and make attempts, because that is the only way we can reach solutions. But not solutions that will leave great burdens to our descendants, instead lasting solutions that will allow us to move forward,” Mickoski said.

Photo: Government