Bujar Osmani in Paris asks France for stronger support for North Macedonia's EU perspective

Bujar Osmani, vice-president of the Democratic Union for Integration (DUI), held a series of meetings in Paris with members of the French Senate, the National Assembly and other French institutions to discuss North Macedonia's European perspective and developments in the Western Balkans.

At the centre of the talks were the stalled EU integration of North Macedonia, proposals for gradual alignment with EU policies so citizens see tangible benefits before full membership, and the need for a unified interpretation of the accession process.

Osmani also asked for reinforced French engagement to secure a clear, single and unambiguous reading of the European integration process in the country, and for backing in the context of relations with Bulgaria.

Ohrid Framework and rights highlighted

During the meetings, Osmani placed special emphasis on the Ohrid Framework Agreement as the foundation of stability, equality and the country’s multiethnic character. He raised concerns about recent developments affecting language rights, fair representation and compliance with the agreement’s basic principles.

“We must not allow North Macedonia to remain sidelined from the region's key European processes. Too much has been done, I would say invested, especially by the French Republic in this process, for which we are especially grateful, but obviously we need additional support so that the integrations can continue,” Osmani said.

The DUI described the Paris visit as part of a continuous dialogue with European partners on North Macedonia’s EU perspective and regional issues of concern, reiterating that implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement and progress toward the EU remain tightly linked to the country’s stability and future.

Photo: press material from the event