Zaev: EU Reforms, Enlargement Could Happen in parallel

He said this at an international conference “A Balkans for the EU” and stressed that getting a date to start accession talks would make a big difference as soon as possible.

“We believe EU leaders will make a difference and take responsibility to enable us to have a clear European perspective and restore confidence in the European integration process”, Zaev said.

He stressed that delaying the decision to open negotiations caused a major disappointment, but also encouraged Northern Macedonia to transform and adopt EU standards so that it can become a full member of it.

Speaking of new methodology, he said it was an important step towards EU accession and that citizens of Northern Macedonia would prove they want a future in Europe.

“We have requested that the EU continue to support the development of capacities and processes, and we can testify that we can bring Europe here”, Zaev said.