“It is incomprehensible why anyone would be against friendship with neighbors, against the rapprochement of young people and peoples of the Western Balkans and against easier and faster economic exchange between countries in the region,” Zaev told TV21.

He adds that in the past we have seen what a closed Balkan means and that is why any advocacy against an Open Balkan is unjustified. “It is especially incomprehensible when such a negative reaction comes from the first person in the country who should be the first in protecting the interests of citizens.

“In North Macedonia, the President does not have any competencies in terms of facilitating customs procedures, in terms of introducing One Stop Shop for fast border crossings, in terms of recognizing work permits and diplomas” Zaev said. Zaev says he does not justify Pendarovski’s opposition to the Open Balkans.

“I am not worried because I am convinced that the institutions will work hard to ensure the benefits of this initiative for the citizens, just as I am convinced that the vast majority of the peoples of our countries are FOR our friendship and good neighborliness and FOR the rapid development of mutual economic cooperation and “For quick removal of all obstacles that borders impose,” Zaev told TV21.

“I am surprised that Pendarovski changed his views on this primarily economic initiative, but I will not be surprised when he changes his mind again to give support in the coming period, in the interest of the citizens, the state and the region,” Zaev added.