PM Orbán: North Macedonia Deserves EU Membership
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán expressed strong support for the European Union accession of North Macedonia, stating that the countries in the Western Balkans “deserve more” than what they currently receive from Brussels. During a press conference after a joint government meeting with North Macedonia in Ohrid, Orbán emphasized that Hungary sees the integration of the Western Balkans into the EU as not only in Hungary’s interests but as a vested interest of the entire EU.
Orbán highlighted the importance of enlargement for the EU, stating that it is a great opportunity for EU members to regain economic dynamism. He criticized the fast-track approach taken with countries like Ukraine and Moldova, emphasizing the need for a merit-based approach to EU accession.
Regarding North Macedonia specifically, Orbán noted that the country had received EU candidacy in 2005 but has not yet started accession talks, while Croatia has already become an EU member. He called this delay a “historic mistake” by the EU and urged for talks to be opened with North Macedonia before the end of this year.
In addition to discussing EU accession, Orbán emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation between Hungary and North Macedonia. He highlighted Hungary’s assistance in fighting wildfires in North Macedonia and pledged support in border protection efforts. Orbán also underlined the role of North Macedonia in preventing illegal migration, emphasizing the need for strategic partnerships in the region to combat this issue.
Orbán also touched on the issue of migration in Europe, criticizing what he described as a “state of hypocrisy” among Western countries. He called for a shift in policy towards managing migration and highlighted the importance of protecting borders to preserve national identity and security.
Furthermore, Hungarian Finance Minister Mihaly Varga met with his North Macedonian counterpart to discuss strengthening bilateral financial and economic ties. The aim is to enhance cooperation in areas such as tax administration and support Hungarian companies in the local market. Varga highlighted Hungary’s support for North Macedonia and reiterated the importance of Western Balkans accession to the EU.
Overall, Orbán’s statements reflect Hungary’s strong support for North Macedonia’s EU accession and the importance of cooperation in the Western Balkans region for economic development and security in Europe.
