We are not alone in the world. In this multilateral world and democratic society, we need to talk and communicate. Even when discussing difficult issues, we simply cannot withdraw from talks, because doing so would send the wrong message and lead to isolation. True patriots fight and win battles; they do not surrender or retreat from them. This is the mentality and character of this Government: to fight and win battles. I will never surrender, nor will I ever withdraw from any discussion. Quite the opposite, we will continue to talk, and ultimately, we will prevail, Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said in an interview with the Atlantic Council, responding to a question regarding Macedonia’s talks with Bulgaria.
The PM reiterated that Macedonia believes in its strategic partnership with the United States while remaining fully committed to the ambition of joining the EU.
“I do not want to comment on the relations between the European Union and the USA, but I simply want to reaffirm our belief in our strategic partnership with the USA, while remaining fully committed to our ambition of joining the EU. This is not merely a political issue, it is a matter of resilience. It will enhance resilience in the region, particularly regarding NATO’s eastern flank. In this context, we serve as a natural crossroads for two vital European corridors that are crucial to NATO: Corridor X, linking the Mediterranean, via the Aegean Sea, to Central Europe, and Corridor VIII, connecting the Adriatic and Ionian Seas to the Black Sea. Just imagine what will happen when the war in Ukraine ends and reconstruction begins, Corridor VIII will be of immense importance. Picture a scenario where my country is a full member of both the EU and NATO; this is highly significant for NATO allies and our strategic partners in the USA alike. We have our own interests, and I will reiterate them: to deepen our strategic partnership and alliance with the United States and to become part of the EU,” PM Mickoski underlined.
