PM Borissov: Bulgaria has always supported North Macedonia’s EU integration

"Bulgaria has been most willing for our neighbours from the Republic of North Macedonia, as well as our friends from all over the Western Balkans, to join the EU," Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said on November 18 during the government’s weekly meeting.

He reminded that it was Bulgaria that strongly supported the Republic of North Macedonia for its membership in NATO.

"We were extremely well-intentioned, concerned and in the conversations we had with them, we very carefully explained how far our concessions could go," the PM said.

Borissov reminded that a joint commission on historical issues had been set up, within which the experts would resolve the disputed issues with precise arguments.

He pointed out that dozens of talks had been held, including with the participation of Deputy Prime Ministers Ekaterina Zaharieva and Krassimir Karakachanov, in search of resolution so that Bulgaria would not be the country to say "no" to the actual start of negotiations now.

Ekaterina Zaharieva: Bulgaria cannot support the EU negotiating framework with Skopje

Prime Minister Boyko Borissov expressed regret that Skopie had not shown commitment, believing that with pressure and lobbying they could make Bulgaria change its position.

"Our position is not a position of stubbornness or a position to stop our closest friends," the PM said. According to him, the Bulgarian position is principled and reflects the expectations of all Bulgarian citizens.

"We are ready to continue the talks," Borissov added, emphasizing the implementation of the Neighbourliness Agreement.

The Prime Minister categorically objected to the use of anti-Bulgarian rhetoric.