NEWS

A merit-based enlargement policy remains a strategic priority for the European Parliament, not only as a geopolitical imperative, but also as a key instrument for promoting peace, democracy, stability and prosperity across Europe, particularly in the Western Balkans, EP President Roberta Metsola writes in response to the letter sent by President Rumen Radev to the heads of the European institutions and to the heads of state and government, members of the European Council, after the EP Foreign Affairs Committee voted on June 24 the draft report on the progress of the Republic of North Macedonia in the European integration process.

 

In his letter the Bulgarian Head of State draws attention to the alarming facts and circumstances surrounding the preparation of the draft report, the rejection of the amendments made by the Bulgarian MEPs, as well as to the problematic engagement of the EP with categories of a moral nature or special scientific orientation such as "identity" and "language", in the absence of a legal basis and relevant competences.

 

In his letter to Rumen Radev, the President of the European Parliament informed about the report adopted by the institution on 9 July, which does not address issues of identity and language. Metsola also stresses that the European Parliament acknowledges North Macedonia’s continued commitment to European integration and alignment with EU policies. It encourages the country to sustain its efforts in advancing EU-related reforms and implementing its commitments, particularly those related to the outstanding constitutional changes regarding the protection of the Bulgarian minority.

 

In her letter to Radev, Metsola expresses appreciation for Bulgaria’s continued support and strong advocacy for the EU accession of the Western Balkans.

 

Taking advantage of their geostrategic position, Bulgaria and Georgia have the potential to deepen their connectivity in various areas such as transport, energy, and the digital sector, which will contribute to promoting the economy, investment, and prosperity in the Black Sea region. This was stated by President Rumen Radev, who held a meeting with the Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, Shalva Papuashvili.

The two were unanimous that restoring peace in Europe through diplomacy is a priority for the EU and the only way to ensure the long-term security and stability of the Old Continent.

The President recalls that the institution of the Special Commercial Administrator (SCA) was introduced by an Act adopted in 2023, which also established a number of safeguards against potential abuse and arbitrariness — safeguards of the kind already adopted in other European states faced with similar circumstances, with the objective of minimising the risk of subsequent financial claims against the State

Bulgaria stands in solidarity with Lebanon's efforts to support peace, security and stabilisation of the Middle East, which are also of utmost importance to the EU, Radev says after a meeting in Sofia with his Lebanese counterpart