Defence Minister Radmila Shekerinska calls Bulgarian President Rumen Radev’s meeting with security services, convened to look into reports of the rights to self-determination of Bulgarians in North Macedonia being violated, a step in the wrong direction, noting North Macedonia has set an excellent example in the region by respecting equality and diversity.

“I’ve never heard of an example in history when intelligence services had worked to benefit human rights and their development. In my opinion, it is a step in the wrong direction. North Macedonia has invested a lot to secure equality and openness of the society to be able to accept diversity. Perhaps, we are the best example in our region in this matter, which is recognized by organizations that can be quite critical,” Shekerinska said answering a question by MIA’s reporter.

The Macedonian society, she added, has proven to be more mature and more open that some older democracies, because we have endured episodes of being not recognized, which has made us more aware about the importance of observing diversity.

“We have learned our lessons and we are demonstrating it every day. In the census, we are allowing every citizen to freely declare themselves. I’d be happy if all countries in the neighborhood would provide the same right for their citizens,” Minister Shekerinska stated.