Radev discusses Skopje and Tirana's EU path in Bulgaria

The decision by the European Union to initiate substantive negotiations with Albania while postponing those with North Macedonia stems from the latter's failure to meet specific conditions. Notably, North Macedonia has not amended its constitution to include Bulgarians among its national minorities, a requirement established in the EU's negotiation framework approved two years prior. President Rumen Radev, speaking from New York, reiterated Bulgaria's readiness to assist North Macedonia in its European integration journey, stressing the importance of recognizing the EU's significance in this process. In Sofia, the Bulgarian National Assembly unanimously adopted a declaration condemning the breakdown of dialogue with North Macedonia and the provocative statements made by its officials. This declaration reflects Bulgaria's commitment to restoring positive relations and addressing the ongoing anti-Bulgarian sentiment in North Macedonia. The Assembly's resolution also emphasizes the need for joint commemorations of shared historical events, which have been undermined by the current political climate. The Bulgarian government has expressed its discontent with North Macedonia's denial of their common history, viewing it as a violation of the Treaty of Friendship, Good Neighborliness, and Cooperation established in 2017. Political leaders in Bulgaria have voiced their concerns, indicating that North Macedonia must decide whether to include Bulgarians in its constitution to maintain its path toward EU membership. The situation highlights the complexities of Balkan politics and the challenges faced by North Macedonia in its EU accession efforts. As tensions rise, the need for constructive dialogue and mutual respect between the two nations becomes increasingly critical for regional stability and cooperation.