English
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Affairs Bekim Sali met with European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos in Brussels. The discussion focused on Macedonia’s European perspective, the implementation of the Reform Agenda, and opportunities for the country to be gradually integrated into European Union policies and programs.
Sali welcomed the European Commission’s communication, “Preparing for a Wider Union,” emphasizing the importance of a more predictable enlargement process based on merit and measurable results. He stated that European integration should deliver tangible opportunities for citizens, the economy, and businesses, while reforms should progressively bring the country closer to the European Single Market.
The meeting also covered the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, as well as reforms in the areas of the rule of law, public administration, digitalization, energy, and economic competitiveness. Specific benefits of gradual integration highlighted during the discussion included participation in the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), the potential expansion of the “Roam Like at Home” model, and cooperation on digital transformation.
Furthermore, Sali underscored the significance of the EU’s future Multiannual Financial Framework for the 2028–2034 period, which, in his view, should provide stable and predictable support for candidate countries. During the visit, European Commissioner Kos gave an interview to media representatives from Macedonia. The Ministry of European Affairs announced that it would continue to cooperate with European institutions with the aim of accelerating reforms and delivering concrete results for the citizens.