President Stevo Pendarovski addressed the public today to call for unity and restrain in light of the refusal of the EU member states to approve the opening of accession talks with Macedonia. Pendarovski said that he has invited the leaders of the main political parties to attend a meeting on Sunday, to discuss the fallout and the growing crisis.

Unfortunately the conclusions of the European Council were not in accordance with our justified expectations. It’s understandable that there is a feeling of disappointment at this moment, but we have to face the consequences, Pendarovski said.

He said that Macedonia has no enemies in the EU, but that there are countries who protect their own interests – a clear reference to France which blocked the opening of accession talks. Following outbursts of anger among many supporters of the ruling coalition, who feel betrayed by France, Pendarovski called for restraint.