During his press conference with Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis, Zoran Zaev said that the next politcal steps in Macedonia will depend on Angela Merkel. Zaev’s Government is in crisis as it becomes clear that the European Union will not approve the opening of accession talks in June – which was Zaev’s key promise as he was imposing the Prespa treaty on the country.

Today we received serious encouragement from a very influential EU member state regarding the new developments in the ALDE group, but also from Germany and regarding the message we expect from Angela Merkel and her clear announcement of the next steps, which will all affect our decisions at home. It is clear that we will receive a date to open accession talks, but it is important that it comes sooner, Zaev said.

He added that the options include reconstruction of the Government, early general elections or asking for a renewed mandate, and the decision here will depend on the outcome of his meeting with Merkel on Thursday.

Zaev also rejected the proposal from VMRO-DPMNE leader Hristijan Mickoski to help the Government accomplish its reforms and win a recommendation to open accession talks.