President Stevo Pendarovski and European Council President Charles Michel at a meeting in Skopje agreed that North Macedonia’s accepting the French proposal on unblocking the country’s EU integration would lead to opening of the first phase of the accession talks, stimulating the country’s progress and prosperity as well as positively influencing the Western Balkans, transmits MIA.
According to an official press release, Pendarovski and Michel talked about citizens’ concerns regarding identity issues, with North Macedonia’s President stressing that the Macedonian language and identity have to be respected and safeguarded by the EU.
They also discussed the latest political developments in North Macedonia, the country’s challenges on its European path, and the EU’s proposal for the start of accession negotiations.
Pendarovski welcomed Michel’s visit, saying it showed the EU’s commitment, and shared information related to the broad consultation process regarding the proposal as well as the public opinion on the issue. The EC President is on a one-day visit to Skopje. He will have separate meetings with high government officials.
