Mucunski: EU expansion into Western Balkans is a strategic security investment

At the opening of the ‘European Dialogues, European Heritage and Future’ conference in Skopje, Minister of Foreign Affairs Timcho Mucunski stated that the expansion of the European Union to include the Western Balkans is a strategic investment in the security, strength, and future of Europe.

The conference, organized by the French Institute in Paris, the French Institute in Skopje, and the French Embassy in North Macedonia, runs until October 2. Mucunski emphasized that while EU membership is a strategic state priority, the integration process should focus on strengthening institutions and creating opportunities for citizens rather than altering national identities. He noted that the accession process must remain credible and merit-based, contingent upon reforms and meeting European criteria.

French Ambassador Christophe Le Rigoler noted that the ‘European Dialogues’ series has been held in various European cities since 2023 to stimulate debate regarding the future of the European project.