The Macedonian language and identity are non-negotiable. We’ll discuss the proposal of Portugal’s EU Presidency, which pays equal attention to the Macedonian language and identity and Bulgaria’s position, Prime Minister Zoran Zaev told reporters on Wednesday, ahead of his visit to Sofia on Thursday.
According to the Macedonian PM, the Portuguese proposal is an innovative and creative solution, worth putting effort in.
He also discussed realistic expectations from Thursday’s visit to Sofia.
“The Bulgarian government is willing to talk and we’ll use this opportunity to pay a visit and meet with the leaders of the largest political parties, the Prime Minister and the President, as well as with other important office holders,” Zaev stressed.
He praised the Portuguese proposal, adding that it pays attention to both sides.
“Our official position is that it’s a good foundation for finding a solution. Bulgaria agrees with this position and we have to take advantage of this. If we reach a solution, great. If not, then progress will surely be made for finding one once [Bulgaria] forms a political government,” the PM underlined.
The first chance for holding the intergovernmental conference is June 22, followed by June 24-25, when the European Council is taking place. Our next shot, Zaev pointed out, is the European Council on Western Balkans, scheduled for October 22, during Slovenia’s EU Presidency.
“We’ve proven that we deserve more. EU feels responsible for not delivering on promises, when we did. North Macedonia sets an example for multiethnic and multi-faith functional democracy, as well as for European dispute resolution and implementation of reforms. Our people deserve the first intergovernmental conference to be held, a half-step on our European integration path,” Zaev said.
The PM reiterated that the Macedonian language and identity are non-negotiable, adding that talks will focus on the Portuguese proposal.
Ahead of his Thursday visit to Sofia, Zaev sent regards to the Bulgarian people and their current and future leaders, who always say that Bulgaria remains committed to North Macedonia’s EU integration.
“The fact that we’re two friendly nations should be demonstrated in practice. I know that brothers sometimes fight, but Bulgaria should definitely support North Macedonia, to ensure our friendship and cooperation grow. Europe will respect us more if we cooperate and find ways to increase cooperation, which will benefit both the Bulgarian and Macedonian people. I believe politicians from both sides will be smart and find a solution,” Zaev told reporters.
He reiterated that Bulgaria takes issue with North Macedonia’s implementation of the Friendship Treaty and requires certain guarantees. However, he noted that the Treaty was followed by the Prespa Agreement, constitutional changes, referendum, presidential election and a pandemic.
“A lot of things were implemented in parallel. However, they have the right to require more dynamic treaty realization. We want this as well. I trust project implementation will only intensify in the future,” the Prime Minister concluded.
