Osmani in Paris: France should help North Macedonia on its path to the EU and with implementing the Ohrid Agreement

Democratic Union for Integration deputy leader Bujar Osmani is on a working visit to Paris, where he has scheduled meetings with representatives of the French Senate, the National Assembly and other French institutions. According to a statement from DUI, the discussions are focused on North Macedonia’s European perspective and developments in the Western Balkans.

The meetings are addressing the country’s stagnation in the European integration process, as well as the need to preserve interethnic relations through the full implementation of the Ohrid Agreement, DUI said.

The talks also covered opportunities for North Macedonia to be gradually included in the policies and mechanisms of the European Union. The aim is for citizens to receive tangible benefits from the integration process even before full membership.

Osmani called on France to increase its engagement in support of a clear, consistent and unequivocal European integration process. He also sought support within the framework of relations between North Macedonia and Bulgaria.

“We must not allow North Macedonia to remain outside the main European processes in the region. Much has been done—I would say, much has been invested—particularly by the French Republic in this process, for which we are extremely grateful. But it is clear that we need additional support so that the integration process can continue,” Osmani said.

One of the main topics of the meetings was also the Ohrid Agreement, which was described as the foundation for the country’s stability, equality and multiethnic character. Osmani expressed concern about developments related to language rights, equitable representation and respect for the agreement’s fundamental principles.

According to him, implementing the Ohrid Agreement and advancing North Macedonia toward the European Union are closely linked to the country’s stability and future.