Hahn gives good news to Macedonia: EU talks could begin in June

EU Enlargement Commissioner once again welcomed signing protocol for NATO and resolving the dispute with Greece as “step that sets up Euro-Atlantic integration”, as it called it, “Republic of future North Macedonia”.

You applaud all the political leaders involved. This is also a historic decision reached by leadership in the country, NATO integration of the Republic of Northern Macedonia will contribute to the security and stability of the Western Balkans and Europe in general”, Hahn said.

Although the two processes are different and divided, with specific conditions and procedures for each of the two organisations, the process in NATO and the EU parallel brings more stability and peace and are based on the same principles as rule of law and democracy.

The Prespa Agreement, which opened the way towards signing the protocol in NATO, is also a step towards European integration, because our strategic for the Western Balkans has been declared last year and defines reconciliation and good neighbourly relations as conditions to enter the EU”, said Eurokomisari for Enlargement and European People's Party Deputy Chairman Johannes Hahn.

He is convinced that member states in June “will assess this great success”.

“It is estimated that there must be visible progress in implementing the reform agenda on which all efforts should be focused. If the historic success of the Prespa Agreement is accompanied by solid reform, as I see the Government aims to achieve this, I am convinced that member states will provide green light for opening negotiations this year. Also questioned is the EU's credibility, as if candidate states meet, then we should also fulfil our promises”, Enlargement Commissioner Johannes Hahn told AIM.