Brussels, 05/11/2012 (Agence Europe) - On 31 October, Bulgarian leaders announced that although their country does not deny the European perspectives of Macedonia (FYROM), Skopje is still not ready to joint the EU or begin accession negotiations. “Bulgaria cannot grant FYROM a 'eurocertificate' on its way to the EU unconditionally”, Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev said during the visit of European Commissioner for Enlargement Stefan Füle, according to the Bulgarian private press agency, Focus. Plevneliev reproaches the FYROM government for an anti-Bulgarian speech and distortion of historical facts.
The Bulgarian minister for foreign affairs, Nikolay Mladenov, stressed Sofia's concerns at Skopje's nationalist policy but he added that his country continues to work in favour of the European perspectives of its neighbour. In his view, European integration is the only way to resolve affairs linked to nationalist discussions. Mladenov has promised a plan on relations with FYROM by the end of the year.
Füle for his part said on Bulgarian National Television that Macedonia's isolation and long wait to join the EU strengthens nationalism in the country, while becoming a member would be a better way of confronting this. Füle added in a press release that moving forward on the path of accession negotiations “encourages reforms, strengthens inter-ethnic relations and creates a favourable climate to develop and strengthen good relations with the neighbours”.
On national radio, he said that he had not heard, during his different meetings with Bulgarian leaders, that Sofia could present an “obstacle” on FYROM's European path, adding that this word had never been mentioned. “We are convinced both countries can address and solve any open issues in a good neighbourly spirit based on the EU values”, Füle said. He also stated in a press release that he was convinced that thanks to constructive dialogue and common understanding notable progress had been accomplished, and he highlighted Bulgaria's key role in the enlargement.
In its enlargement report of 10 October, the European Commission proposes a compromise so that FYROM's accession negotiations, which are blocked by Greece, might begin before the question of the name is settled. (CG/transl.fl)