Bulgarian Member of European Parliament (MEP) and Macedonia Rapporteur, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, expressed concern that Macedonia is forfeiting a significant opportunity by refusing to implement necessary reforms that would kickstart the country’s EU accession negotiations.

Kyuchyuk emphasized the crucial nature of this moment, stating that the chance at hand might not reappear in the near future due to the rapidly changing landscape within the EU. He highlighted the EU’s enlargement policy as a geopolitical matter, drawing attention to Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova as illustrative examples.

The MEP pointed out that Macedonia faces a substantial political and social dilemma. The nation must decide whether to continue progressing in its civilizational development, initiating reforms across various societal domains to draw its citizens closer to the EU, or remain stagnant. Kyuchyuk stressed the responsibility of the two major political parties, SDSM and VMRO-DPMNE, in resolving this crucial matter. He underscored the significance of seizing opportunities promptly, warning that missing out could distance Macedonia further from the EU.

Additionally, Kyuchyuk highlighted the possibility of Albania commencing accession negotiations in March or April, potentially placing Macedonia alongside Kosovo and Serbia. He cautioned that this could embolden anti-European sentiments within the country.