SDSM: Von der Leyen confirmed Macedonian identity and language, while Mickoski is obstructing EU integration

SDSM reacted to the joint press conference held by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, accusing the latter of misleading citizens with claims of betrayal. According to the party, Brussels clearly confirmed the Macedonian identity and language.

SDSM recalled that Von der Leyen declared in Skopje, at the government headquarters, that the country is in the EU and that only one step remains before the opening of the first cluster, Fundamentals. They stressed that the European Commission president also said that Europe is waiting for North Macedonia with its identity and language, since its culture and language make the Union richer.

The Social Democrats said that Mickoski had presented precisely this statement as a betrayal during the campaign, using the slogans “Never the North,” “Repeal the Prespa Agreement” and “Return the name.”

SDSM stressed that Von der Leyen said clearly on camera: “We are waiting for you with your identity and language.” The party asked what remained of the purported patriotism.

“Bulgarian passports among the ranks of OBRM-PDUKM. Companies in Bulgaria. And accusations that the other side is working on Radev’s orders. Latas – Goebbels,” SDSM said.

According to the party, the step requested by the European Union does not mean surrender, since the Fundamentals cluster covers the judiciary, the prosecution service and the fight against corruption.

“This is the same step that Mickoski has blocked for two and a half years. The second deadline has passed, while June 1 was a promise that was not accompanied by a single word,” the party said.

SDSM added that the position of “not at any cost” has nothing to do with language or identity, but with an investigation and fear of accountability. According to the party, it had said this before the elections, while Von der Leyen has now confirmed the same position.

Von der Leyen said that the European Union would welcome North Macedonia “with its identity and language,” emphasizing that Macedonian culture and language could enrich the Union./Telegrafi/