Bulgaria-North Macedonia relations face increasing diplomatic tension

Diplomatic tensions between Bulgaria and North Macedonia continue to escalate regarding EU accession and bilateral cooperation. Bulgarian MEP Ilhan Kyuchyuk stated that relations are becoming ‘more difficult and worse,’ citing a lack of sincerity in North Macedonia and a need for political consensus to align with European values.

Kyuchyuk also addressed a humanitarian dispute involving Bulgarian citizen Iva Mihaylova, noting that North Macedonia has categorically refused Bulgarian medical assistance for her, labeling it an interference in internal affairs.

In response to ongoing bilateral friction, North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has called for European Union mediation. He requested an EU representative be present at the negotiating table to discuss the minority action plan with Bulgaria, arguing that international presence is necessary to ensure a predictable and successful dialogue rather than a purely bilateral process.

Separately, the political movement ZNAM for Our Macedonia presented a two-year report on its participation in the government, emphasizing accountability and its commitment to a reformed, European Macedonia that preserves its national identity.