Germany’s support for North Macedonia’s accession to the EU

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said North Macedonia’s place is the European Union (EU).

Before his official visit to North Macedonia, Baerbock said: “North Macedonia’s place is in the European Union, just like our other partners in the Western Balkans. Since we take this issue seriously, there should no longer be any doubts from the formal start of the accession negotiations with the EU,” he said.

Pointing out that the high hopes and expectations of the North Macedonian people regarding the accession process are both an opportunity and a danger for them, Baerbock said: “It is dangerous because despite all the progress and sometimes painful concessions made in the last 17 years, if we, as the EU, do not meet their expectations, we may lose Macedonians to Europe. The opportunity arises because all those involved in the EU enlargement process are aware of what is at stake. A future in the European family, a region of stable prosperity and peace, the right to self-determination.

Stating that he understands very well that discussions in North Macedonia are conducted with passion and passion, especially when it comes to issues of identity, history, language and culture, Baerbock said: “This is no different in our country and for Of course, it applies to fundamental issues like constitutional amendment. However, experience shows that in such cases it would be beneficial to set political calculations aside, move towards a clear objective and fight resolutely for it. The broad support for the constitutional amendment in the North Macedonian Parliament will send a signal to the entire region, not just within the country, but far beyond: we absolutely want to belong to the EU and will do whatever it takes on our part to achieve it”. (AA)