A stable and prosperous Western Balkans, anchored in Europe, must be a strategic interest of the whole EU, which is why Slovakia supports the European prospects of North Macedonia, President Peter Pellegrini declared after Tuesday's visit by North Macedonian head of state Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova to the Presidential Palace in Bratislava.
"Slovakia supports North Macedonia's European bid. We do it as a friend, partner but also as an ally. At the same time, though, we're saying equally clearly that the enlargement process must be fair, predictable and based on the same rules for everyone striving for EU membership," stated Pellegrini.
According to Siljanovska-Davkova, the integration of the Western Balkans into the EU is important, as these countries can contribute toward the preservation of the global order.
The two presidents also touched on the current security situation, including the Russian aggression in Ukraine. Pellegrini pointed out that he will attend the NATO summit in Ankara, slated for July, as will the North Macedonian president. In this context, he added that they both have an interest in Europe becoming a stronger and more reliable shield of security and defence in NATO. As for the war in Ukraine, Pellegrini concurred with Siljanovska-Davkova on the need to find a diplomatic solution for a permanent peace.
House Chair Richard Raši (Hlas-SD) also met the North Macedonian President on Tuesday. They discussed strengthening of relations between the two parliaments, supporting North Macedonia's accession to the European Union, and exchanging experience in youth engagement.
Source: TASR
