Thimonier: Support through the AFD for meeting EU standards

Through the new French Strategy for the Western Balkans countries unveiled by French President Emmanuel Macron in June in Berlin, our engagement would be specified so that you can as quickly and effectively as possible meet the European standards to which the nations of this region aspire. In this respect, the Prespa Agreement opened new perspectives for the future, said French Ambassador Christian Thimonier said yesterday.

“In the autumn, we expect to complete the preparations for the agreement with the Macedonian authorities so that the French Development Agency (AFD) can start work and cooperate in key areas with the state and local authorities, as well as with the civil sector, such as the environment and urban planning for which preparatory missions have already been implemented,” said the French Ambassador.

Concerning EU integration, Thimonier referred to frequent contacts and a recent visit of French Minister for European Affairs, which as he said, create a useful and open dialogue on our EU aspirations.

“We understand and support them, wishing a fundamental change in the management of the European project. That project brings great hope that we should not let go of it,” Thimonier said.

Ambassador Thimonier said Paris wished North Macedonia, as a full-fledged member of NATO, to increase its presence in EU peacekeeping missions, noting that the focus on reforms should be directed at strengthening the rule of law.

“I use this opportunity to thank all those who work with us to develop the Francophonie and cooperate in implementing reforms to strengthen the rule of law that should be at the center of our joint activities. We will continue to work on this plan in spirit of stability and prosperity of this region, which is part of the future of Europe. North Macedonia through its successful reforms, fighting corruption, building a peaceful society and full cooperation with its neighbors can be an example,” said Ambassador Thimonier.