Thursday 15th October 2009
Address of the President of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, Mr. Trajko Veljanoski, after the receiving the Republic of Macedonia 2009 Progress Report from the EU Ambassador Mr. Erwan Fouere
Ladies and Gentlemen,
H.E. Mr. Erwan Fouere, the EU Ambassador to the Republic of Macedonia, has presented the Republic of Macedonia 2009 Progress Report. We already know the contents of the Report.
Most important for all of us is that the Report of the EC clearly confirms the progress of the Republic of Macedonia and recommends opening of the accession negotiations.
Distinguished fellow citizens,
The citizens of the Republic of Macedonia deserve the greatest merit for this success, since throughout these years their support for the European integration processes has been over 90%. Your support makes our work as politicians easier, but at the same time increases our responsibility. This support also shows that every reform we are making is being accepted by the public, by the citizens, as something which will provide better future for all of us, and not as something imposed from outside.
Having in mind the role of the Parliament, I would like to emphasize that every MP, regardless of political affiliation, whether they are part of the majority or are in opposition, has worked responsibly and constructively on the fulfilment of the benchmarks. I would like to use this opportunity to express my gratitude to all Members of Parliament and for their support for the Macedonia’s integration process.
I have to point out the role of our friends from the international community, especially that of the Embassies and the Ambassadors that assisted us on our way towards the EU.
Distinguished journalists and representatives from the media,
I would like to express my gratitude to you, because you are the link without which the democratic processes could not exist or develop.
From today’s point of view, the European integration processes confirmed that this process can not be terminated by anyone. This is why I am convinced that the Republic of Macedonia, the Assembly, the Government and the institutions, as well as the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia after this Report will work even harder and more responsibly on our integration in the European Union.
Thank you.