Parties split after Mickoski invites opposition into EU dialogue talks with Bulgaria

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski’s invitation for opposition parties to join talks on EU-related dialogue with Bulgaria produced sharply different responses from political opponents. From "Bihacka" some were categorical that they will not take part in such negotiations and called the move "only a circus for the public," adding that it is Mickoski himself who must explain where he is taking the country.

SDSM accused the prime minister of staging a diversion. "We will not participate in the Medrano circus; that is done by Mickoski's satellites. Mickoski is working on isolation rather than integration. Reforms are not being implemented; the European path has been halted because of Mickoski and his fear of being held accountable. While other countries have roadmaps to prospective EU membership, Macedonia is nowhere. It is not a question of what the opposition will do but what Mickoski will do. All responsibility lies with Hristijan Mickoski."

Parties weigh intent and timing

DUI said it supports euro-integration processes in principle but wants the proposal examined carefully. "We are always ready to make any contribution on the path to European integrations - whether from a position of government or opposition. Still, it must be seen what the intentions are with this open invitation and what we can all do together," the party told TV24.

Levica said it has not yet formed a position and that it will discuss the prime minister’s proposal at party bodies today. "We still have not formed a stance. Today we will review the proposal at the meeting of party bodies."

Mickoski first put forward the idea that the opposition should be included in the negotiation processes for EU integration during a speech in the Assembly yesterday, replying to a parliamentary question from the European Front. In that context he also suggested that opposition parties be involved in an action plan for minorities.

The reactions underline continued partisan disagreement over the government’s approach to EU accession talks, with some parties openly rejecting participation and others calling for further clarification of the proposal’s scope and intent.

Photo: press material from the event