Ivanov: PM Borissov is taking sides and fails to realize the goal of EU presidency

Bulgaria should seek intensive contacts not only with Macedonia’s government, but also with other institutions, such as the President Office, Parliament, opposition parties. That is the way for the two countries to enjoy constructive, good-neighborly and friendly relations, President Rumen Radev said Thursday, commenting the Bulgarian Prime Minister’s decision to cancel a meeting with Macedonia’s President Gjorge Ivanov.

Radev called on Ivanov to be not just a participant but also a leader in the dialogue in Macedonia, because this is an important condition for the achievement of the country’s strategic priorities – the EU, NATO membership.

‘I hope that our priorities for the Western Balkans will not come down only to hugs.  We should demonstrate leadership, take responsibility in difficult times,’ Radev said at a joint press conference with his Macedonian counterpart.

For Ivanov, the decision of PM Boyko Borissov to cancel the meeting is an act of taking side and one that doesn’t contribute to promoting dialogue and cooperation.

‘He is not just Bulgaria’s PM, but also of the EU-Presidency holder country. The European Union promotes dialogue, constructiveness and cooperation everywhere, so by his gesture, he is taking side and fails to realize the goal of EU membership and presidency,’ Ivanov said.