EU progress report discussed at government panel; judiciary and reforms in focus
Officials said the judiciary and corruption remain key obstacles while a Swiss 2025–2028 cooperation programme was presented.
The Government hosted a panel discussion that revisited the European Union's latest progress report on North Macedonia, with officials and EU delegation representatives focusing on persistent shortcomings in the judiciary and the need for stronger anti‑corruption measures.
Key points from the report and the debate
Deputy Head of Mission Ben Nupnau singled out continued interference by other state institutions in the work of the judiciary as a serious concern and highlighted the necessity of a more effective fight against corruption.
Foreign Minister Timcho Mucunski said a national consensus is required for steps related to constitutional amendments and called for clear positions from official Sofia, including on issues connected to minorities. He added that attention should be paid to progress across all areas covered by the European agenda, especially where the report identified weaknesses.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said he expects an improved assessment next year and noted that, regarding constitutional changes, the government is working to "repair the harmful policies of the previous administration."
As a sign of deepening bilateral cooperation, the Swiss cooperation programme for North Macedonia for 2025–2028 was presented as a significant tool to support reforms. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis described the programme as an important instrument for enhancing cooperation and backing reform processes across multiple sectors.
The progress report also contains positive appraisals in education, science and digitalisation, citing a series of ongoing projects and activities aimed at improving those fields.
Photo: press material from the event
