The importance of continuing the reform on all fronts and in particular, in the area of rule of law, as part of the ‘fundamentals’ cluster for the negotiations under the new methodology – to be opened first and to be closed last, was underscored by the new EU Ambassador David Geer at a joint press conference alongside PM Zoran Zaev on Wednesday.

This means, he noted, that country will have to maintain a steady pace of effort in the area of rule of law until the very end of the negotiations.

“The term of the new government, as well as my term as the Head of the EU Delegation to North Macedonia begin at a time, when we are all looking ahead to the formal start of the country’s EU accession negotiations at the Intergovernmental Conference. Let me recall that for the country to be at this stage of its EU integration process, it means that already a lot has been achieved, both when it comes to reforms, but also in terms of solving bilateral disputes with its neighbours, where we recognise that North Macedonia is an example for the entire region,” Geer said.

He said he stressed the importance of developments in other sectors, including upholding democracy and defending human rights, protecting the environment and forging a vibrant and sustainable economy. “These are crucial elements for bringing about a tangible positive change in the lives of citizens. Progress in these areas would mean bringing the EU into North Macedonia, which is essentially, what the accession process is all about,” the EU diplomat stated.

Geer also stressed the importance of good neighbourly relations, which ‘represent an important part of the enlargement process, as well as of the Stabilisation and Association process.’

“It is thus important that the Prespa Treaty and the Treaty on Good Neighbourly Relations continue to be implemented in good faith by all,” he said, adding that the EU accession process is a paramount task, which requires mobilisation of all political forces and the entire society behind it.

“I therefore look to the government, all political forces, and all parts of the society to engage constructively. From my side, I can assure you that you will find the EU Delegation and its dedicated staff by your side, continuing helping with resources and expertise, all in the name of our common goal – to see North Macedonia become part of the EU,” Ambassador Geer told the news conference.

Furthermore, he voiced hopes the EU would continue to provide support and aid for the country to handle the COVID-19 crisis.

Speaking at the news conference, PM Zaev  said he expected that discussions in Brussels on the negotiating framework would have a successful outcome at the General Affairs Council on November 10. According to him, it would produce realistic chances for the first Intergovernmental Conference to be organized in December.

“We intent to activate the fast track of the negotiations chapter by chapter by fully and unconditionally fulfilling our EU agenda. On our part, we won’t allow any fresh delays. We accept the principle of reversibility unless there is setback of the democracy in our country. But, we’ve solemnly pledged to not let it happen,” Zaev stated.

He views the signals from European partners, that bilateral issues shouldn’t serve as stumbling block in the negotiations, as very optimistic.

According to the PM, Bulgaria is North Macedonia’s NATO ally. “It is our joint duty to be improving good neighborly ties, mutual cooperation and to build friendship. The spirit of good faith and friendship stemming from the Friendship Treaty compels us to focus on strengthening bilateral relations and respecting the right to self-determination,” Zaev stressed.

Moreover, PM Zaev thanked the EU for the support in the fight against COVID-19.

“We’ve reached the point of no return. We’ve lost so much time on conflicts instead on solving them. The benefits from our efforts are being felt by the generations now and they will be felt by future generation with every step, every opened chapter, every solved issue,” he said, adding the government was committed to improving the quality of life for all citizens.