Georg Georgiev: Constitutional Changes are Just the First Step for North Macedonia

Skopje – Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georgi Georgiev emphasized that the incorporation of Bulgarians into the Constitution is the first step, but not the sole requirement for initiating North Macedonia’s EU accession negotiations. He asserted that this matter transcends bilateral relations and aligns with the broader European consensus.

Georgiev remarked during the “Brussels 1” show, “It’s essential to understand that amending the Constitution to recognize Bulgarians as a state-building nation is just one criterion. We should not narrow the conversation to this single aspect, as there is a risk—one I hope will not materialize—of suggesting that once the inclusion happens and the constitutional amendments in line with European consensus are met, some might claim, ‘we told you Bulgarians have only one agenda.’”

He noted that the European consensus also encompasses the enforcement of the Good Neighbor Agreement with Bulgaria, along with its associated protocols, and the Action Plan dedicated to safeguarding the rights of minority groups.

“All these elements must be in place; otherwise, the European consensus will not be fulfilled, nor will the Council’s conclusions be met. If that is not established, we cannot proceed to open the first Cluster focusing on human rights,” Georgiev explained.

The Bulgarian Minister stated that while constitutional amendments will pave the way for European integration, other EU stipulations must also be adhered to, clarifying that this is not merely a bilateral concern or a subject of interstate debate.

Georgiev further expressed confusion over why Macedonian leaders remain silent about these issues with their citizens, representing the constitutional changes as the only demand in the process.

“That’s why I continuously urge my colleagues, in good faith, not to give the impression that this is being approached with any ulterior motives. It is quite clear that there are specific conditions outlined in black and white that guide the process,” Georgiev concluded. (April 15, 2025)