Mickoski on EU Integration: No Constitutional Amendments Under My Leadership

Skopje – Today, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski emphasized that constitutional amendments will not occur without assurances from Brussels. He highlighted the need for a collaboratively developed, straightforward plan to prevent further bilateralization of the accession process.

“I hope that the Macedonian issue will finally gain attention in Brussels. We need to sit down with representatives there to formulate a comprehensive plan and strategy that addresses all hurdles, not just the initial few. I want to be involved in devising a plan that guides us to the finish line. While no one can promise a specific timeline, they can assure us that bilateral issues will no longer hinder our progress. We’ve made no advancements in the past 20 years due to these bilateral challenges. It’s not that we lack merit; many member states joined without being flawless. It’s not solely about clusters and chapters; it also hinges on political will and decisive action. Unfortunately, this political will has been absent for the Macedonian file over the last two decades. This is a two-way street. We are prepared to move forward, but is Brussels truly ready to do the same—not just in words, but by establishing a clear plan?” Mickoski stated during a joint press conference with Minister Vesna Janevska.

In response to questions regarding Brussels’ insistence on constitutional amendments to further the European integration journey, and Speaker Afrim Gashi’s assertion that this requires political will from the leading ruling party, Mickoski reiterated that as long as he remains in leadership of the Government and VMRO-DPMNE, there will be no constitutional amendments without guarantees from the EU.

“Yes, there will be no political will as long as I lead the Government and serve as president of VMRO-DPMNE. Without VMRO-DPMNE’s support, constitutional amendments will not happen, and that is unequivocal. Under the current conditions, they will not be made. I am neither reckless nor showy; I prefer firm foundations for my decisions. When someone in Brussels is ready to discuss the end of this process, I will then be prepared to engage,” Mickoski remarked, praising Gashi’s statement for accurately reflecting the reality that constitutional amendments cannot proceed without VMRO-DPMNE’s involvement. (December 31)