Zaev-Rama: EU members inclined to embrace Western Balkans

There is a propensity among EU members for the accession of Western Balkan countries to the organization, and at the same time there is an opportunity for Macedonia to join NATO, Prime Minister Zoran Zaev said Friday in Pogradec at a joint press conference with his Albanian counterpart Edi Rama.

‘I know that Macedonia and Albania share the vision for prosperous and inter-connected region, integrated with the European Union and NATO. However I would like to say that Albania’s support of Macedonia on that path will mean a lot to the state and its citizens,’ Zaev said.

In this respect, he extended gratitude to Albania, its government and Prime Minister on the regular support of Macedonia’s bid to join NATO.

Macedonia, as all countries in the region, are facing a challenge to meet the criteria for a mature democratic society, which means independent judiciary, free media, efficient institutions in service of citizens and professional administration, Zaev said.

‘We are committed to building a civic society that offers equal opportunities to everybody, relaxed interethnic relations and implementation of the Ohrid Agreement in practice. We believe that the diversities are making us stronger. The upcoming months may also be crucial for Macedonia and its progress on the road to the EU, NATO membership’ Zaev said.

Rama on his part said that the joint session of the Macedonian and Albanian governments was aimed at advancing the bilateral relations.