Bekim Sali: EU enlargement process must remain credible and merit-based
At an informal Council meeting in Dublin he urged faster reforms, coordinated expert support and gradual integration towards full membership.
First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Affairs Bekim Sali told an informal meeting of the Council for General Affairs of the European Union in Dublin that enlargement is today as much a geopolitical necessity as a political choice, and that the process must remain credible and merit-based.
Speaking under the Irish Presidency, Sali said North Macedonia remains firmly committed to European integration, to carrying out reforms and to aligning fully with EU values and policies. The Dublin session on enlargement brought together ministers from EU member states and representatives of candidate and partner countries to discuss ways to speed up reforms and strengthen institutional capacities.
Sali highlighted the Stabilisation and Association Agreement as a central pillar of his country’s transformation, noting its contribution to improving legislation, the economy and public administration. He warned, however, that the principal challenge now is delivering reforms effectively — particularly in the rule of law, the judiciary, anti-corruption efforts and public administration.
Calls for practical, expert support
He welcomed the vision of EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos for a more ambitious model of gradual integration that would allow candidate countries phased access to EU policies, programmes and parts of the single market before full membership. According to Sali, gradual integration should accelerate preparations, deliver tangible benefits for citizens and businesses, and strengthen confidence in the process.
Sali urged more coordinated support from member states through direct expert assistance, TAIEX, Twinning and longer-term placement of European experts in domestic institutions. He insisted the accession process must remain fair, predictable and based on merit so that results and difficult political decisions are matched by concrete progress.
"North Macedonia has chosen Europe. We are ready to do our part and expect that commitment, reforms and results will be recognized with progress. Investing in our capacities is an investment in a future member state and in a stronger Europe," Sali said.
Photo: press material from the event
