The EU remains committed to enlargement and remains the strongest partner of the Western Balkan countries. That was the message sent following the Summit in Tivat.
European Council President Costa and European Commission President von der Leyen called on Western Balkan leaders to take all necessary steps and seize the momentum. The former confirmed that new ideas were considered on how to optimize and accelerate the accession process and reduce bureaucratic procedures.
Von der Leyen agreed, though candidate countries will still have to implement reforms and make difficult decisions, with EU membership remaining based on a merit system.
“Together, we are building a stronger, connected, and more innovative future”, PM Mickoski said after the EU-Western Balkans Summit.
On the sidelines, he held meetings with German Chancellor Merz and French President Macron, with the constitutional changes matter being among the topics. The Government’s task, he added, is to progress, but, at the same time, “not to lose our dignity”.
Bulgarian PM Radev expressed readiness to help Western Balkan countries become EU members. However, as he stated, Bulgaria is waiting for North Macedonia to make the constitutional changes.
Ahead of the Summit, the Non-Paper by Merz and Macron was presented, in which they propose the gradual integration of the Western Balkan countries, Ukraine, and Moldova, as well as simplifying the negotiation process, which would continue to be merit-based.