Mucunski: We are confident a reasonable solution can be reached that meets our needs.

Skopje – Timcho Mutsunski, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, expressed that had the previous government shown a more serious and genuine commitment to safeguarding Macedonian national interests, the current predicament might have been avoided. He noted that European Union member states share a sense of obligation regarding the challenges faced by Macedonia over the last three decades, as he shared in an interview with MKD.mk.

Despite the difficulties, Mutsunski assured that the current administration is acting based on principles and is diligently working to fulfill the promises outlined in their program. He acknowledged that while the process may not be straightforward, there is confidence that a rational and acceptable solution can be achieved.

When discussing the bilateralization of the enlargement process, Mutsunski highlighted the increasing recognition within the EU of the negative impacts this practice has. He underscored the importance of ensuring the security of the enlargement process. On the ongoing challenges with Bulgaria, he reaffirmed the commitment to maintaining a dialogue aimed at reaching a compromise that would provide predictability in Macedonia’s journey towards EU membership.

“Imposing strict deadlines could weaken our position,” Mutsunski cautioned. “However, this doesn’t imply that the process should extend indefinitely. We must engage in dialogue as promptly as possible, which is currently taking place on various levels. This dialogue has never ceased. It is essential to find a resolution, as any delays in the enlargement process are detrimental not only to us, but also to EU member states and the entire region given its complexities,” he stated.

Addressing the issue of Euroscepticism, Mutsunski acknowledged the widespread disappointment among citizens regarding the EU’s stance on the enlargement process. “Public opinion polls reflect a significant level of discontent among our populace towards the EU’s approach and the perceived injustices. Nevertheless, the majority of citizens maintain that our strategic priority should be EU accession. In simpler terms, despite the disappointment and justified grievances, a substantial majority still believes that a European future is the best path for our country,” Mutsunski emphasized.