Zaev would trade two Nobel Prizes for an EU talks date

The interview cites Zaev as explaining that should no date be given to the country, he could be blamed by lawmakers that he lied when assuring them a vote for the Prespa Agreement would open the doors to the EU.

“I said that if we change the name, if we maintain good relations with Greece and Bulgaria, if we implement all reforms, Europe will fulfill its promises.

“If this isn’t the case, of course I’ll take personal responsibility. I won’t wait for the opposition or the Parliament to do it, but I will take responsibility and step down from office,” Zaev tells Le Soir.

The PM adds that should the EU not deliver, the people could turn towards nationalist currents within the country.

“The risk is that nationalism and radicalism could return to our country,” Zaev says, adding that the country “had a ‘hybrid’ regime that destroyed all democratic rights and freedoms, all foundations of a normal country, and the risk is those times could come back.”

Asked why the EU should care about this as it concerns the country’s internal affairs, Zaev said it was a question of mutual interest, adding a date for talks wouldn’t imply that North Macedonia joins the EU right away.

“We don’t expect to become a member country immediately, but we have to continue our EU integration process.

“After being blocked for 15 years, being given a date is nothing drastic! It just means we accept the obligation to adjust our legislature, and prepare our institutions and country, for a membership date, maybe in 2025 or 2030, no one knows. We’re partners, and this is about mutual interests,” Zaev says.

On his nomination for the Nobel Prize together with Greek PM Alexis Tsipras for the Prespa Agreement, Zaev tells Le Soir that an EU date matters more to him.

“I’d give two Nobel prizes for that decision from the European Council,” Zaev says. “It’s a tremendous honor to be nominated. We’re a small country. But our award is the affirmation of our work, and the only award that matters at this point is the European Council’s decision.”