Escobar: Corruption is a major problem for the Western Balkans

The special envoy of the United States for the Western Balkans, Gabriel Escobar, claims corruption is a major problem in this region.

Washington wants to see the European road clear for all Western Balkan countries, the US diplomat said.

“Corruption is a major problem throughout the region. I am happy to see that during the membership process the focus is on rule of the law as a condition for membership in the EU”, Escobar said in an interview for the North Macedonia portal 360 Grada.

He stressed that there is another reason why the United States wants to see the entire region in the European Union.

Any country that joined the EU is more stable, more advanced and fair in terms of justice for its citizens”. This is another reason why we want to see you on the road to membership at Union”, Escobar said.

He added that soon some people from Northern Macedonia will be sanctioned by the United States.

President Biden's “Administration is dedicated to fighting corruption, because it represents corruption for society. We cannot declare sanctions, but be sure there will be”, Escobar said.