Skopje – Today, during a joint session of the National Council for Euro-Integration and the Parliamentary Committee on European Affairs, Cypriot Ambassador to North Macedonia, Andreas Fotiou, outlined Cyprus’s priorities as the current holder of the EU presidency for the next six months. He underscored Cyprus’s commitment to maintaining a regular and open dialogue with the Western Balkans, reaffirming that North Macedonia is an integral part of the EU enlargement process.
Fotiou highlighted that the motto of the Cypriot presidency, “An autonomous Union open to the world,” signifies the need for an autonomous European Union. He stated that a more autonomous Union will showcase the necessary internal strength to collaborate with external partners when possible, while acting independently when required, all while respecting international law and order.
The ambassador emphasized the strategic importance of the Western Balkans for the EU, assuring that the Union’s engagement with North Macedonia will proceed with a credible, merit-based approach.
– The Cypriot presidency emphasizes the importance of regular and open dialogue with the Western Balkans, and North Macedonia is a vital part of the Union’s enlargement process. Cyprus acknowledges North Macedonia’s dedication to advancing reforms and aligning with European standards, and encourages ongoing efforts in this direction – stated Fotiou.
He introduced the five pillars of the Cypriot presidency, focusing on autonomy through security and defense, autonomy through competitiveness, global openness, shared values, and negotiations regarding the budget for the upcoming EU financial framework.
The newly appointed Minister for European Affairs, Bekim Sali, addressed the session, stating that the country’s European integration is not merely an administrative task or technical agenda, but a civilizational choice that enjoys widespread social support.
– For us, European integration represents a clear state direction that unites the government, opposition, institutions, and citizens. In a time of significant geopolitical instability, enlargement policy is not just an option, but a necessity; it is also an investment in a stable and autonomous EU. In this context, North Macedonia is part of the solution – stated Sali.
He asserted that the country continuously demonstrates its credibility and responsibility as a partner to the EU.
Sali acknowledged that the accession process is challenging, emphasizing that reforms are not merely an externally imposed obligation but an internal priority. He noted this is a deliberate political choice to enhance state and institutional capacities.
– For us, EU enlargement is an inseparable part of this vision. Europe cannot be complete if the Western Balkans remain marginalized; North Macedonia is prepared to bridge that European political gap and engage in these agreements. Therefore, today we convey a clear message – North Macedonia is ready, and this signifies a moment of political maturity for both North Macedonia and the EU, a moment we must seize – emphasized Sali. (26 January 2026)
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