Skopje – In the context of our European integration, it is crucial to recognize our interest in resolving the existing dispute with Bulgaria. I am heartened by the growing awareness among member states and European institutions regarding our stance. I often hear concerns about predictability, countered by the argument that certainty cannot be guaranteed on the path to European integration. However, I assert that our case for integration is unique and cannot be compared to any recent historical examples, stated Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Timcho Mucunski during today’s press conference in response to a journalist’s inquiry.
Mucunski reiterated that over the past three decades, the country has revised its constitution multiple times, changed its flag and name, and made numerous national concessions.
– From a conditional standpoint, it might seem that amending the constitution is the simplest step, especially since we hold a majority in Parliament. However, what if the Government proceeds and faces the same situation six months later? Is that a responsible or European approach? We insist on establishing a framework for predictability to secure guarantees that our identity, language, and national history will not be subject to negotiation, as we currently feel uneasy. There must be assurance that the other side will honor international conventions, as they committed to, and respect the Macedonians residing in their territory. There is no doubt that the positions articulated by Prime Minister Mickoski at the Congress have been clearly communicated in Brussels; they have been consistently articulated for an extended period, Mucunski remarked at the joint press conference with Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Elisa Spiropali.
According to Mucunski, there is encouragement from several member states and European institutions to foster dialogue.
– We are prepared to engage in discussions as soon as tomorrow to address and lift the unjust blockade imposed on our country. However, if there are expectations that this Government will simply concede without certainty about our future and the completion of the European journey, the public is well aware that we are not inclined to do so, Mucunski emphasized.
He noted that the intricacies of the situation are further complicated by the internal political climate in Bulgaria, making it imperative that we remain cautious in our public statements.
– We will not allow ourselves to fall into the same cycle of blockades imposed by our predecessors, who found it easier to accept everything offered by the other side. There is no issue for which a solution cannot be found if there is genuine will from all parties involved, Mucunski concluded. (22 December 2025)
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