Tetovo, 11 February 2026 (MIA) -  Quizzed about the fight against corruption, the Ambassador of the European Union, Michalis Rokas, told journalists Wednesday developments in this area are directed toward the set goal. He assessed that the fight against corruption was seriously affected by the 2023 amendments to the Criminal Code, but believes there is a real focus now.

“I think this issue must be addressed, there already was an initiative from the country’s Parliament. Certain amendments were adopted. However, the newly adopted amendments to the Criminal Code are yet to be delivered to the European Commission for its assessment. On the other hand, there is a new commission or committee on financial investigations, on the confiscation of property that was established last week. The establishment of such a commission or body was really encouraging to see, so I think things are moving in the right direction,” Rokas said.

The EU Ambassador said he also met with the head of the State Commission for the Prevention of Corruption which also gives him hope things are moving in the right direction.

“They have adopted a working plan which I believe is comprehensive. I also think that many things need to be delievered, especially related to the rule of law. I think all of these things need to happen in parallel and let’s hope that the right contribution is made to address all of these issues. So, considering all these deelopments, things are moving in the right direction,” Ambassador Rokas said.

Asked to assess the constitutional amendments process related to the country’s EU accession, Rokas highlighted the visit of the EU leaders to the country and their message that the Union’s doors are open for North Macedonia.

“We are ready, we have offered all kinds of assistance, even trust building measures if it is necessary or any kind of activities or ideas that emerge with the goal of building trust, so we can open accession negotiations for the country’s membership in the European Union. The European Union’s position is fully clear and it dates from 2022, and there was clear commitment from the countries, so I think all instruments are there for us to be able to open the accession talks,” Rokas said.

The EU Ambassador took journalists’ questions while visiting the Municipality of Bogovinje as part of an initiative aimed at informing the public about convergence with the EU and the country’s accession process. The visit began with the Ambassador’s meeting with Mayor Feti Abazi and the members of the municipal council.

Photo: MIA