Brussels, 18/12/2013 (Agence Europe) - The EU foreign affairs ministers again decided not to open accession negotiations with the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM). While it “broadly” shares the Commission's assessment that the political criteria continue to be sufficiently met, the Council states that “with a view to a possible decision of the European Council to open accession negotiations” it “will revert to the issue in 2014, on the basis of an update by the Commission”. The update will focus on “further implementation of reforms in the context of the high level accession dialogue, including the implementation of the 1 March political agreement, and on tangible steps taken to promote good neighbourly relations and to reach a negotiated and mutually accepted solution to the name issue.”
In its conclusions, the Council welcomes the fact that the EU agenda remains FYROM's strategic priority and that it has made further progress in improving its ability to take on the obligations of membership. The ministers underline that particular attention should be paid to the rule of law - including the independence of the judiciary and achieving further results in the fight against corruption and organised crime. Freedom of expression and the media situation in general also remain issues of concern. The issue of high unemployment needs to be tackled and public financial management strengthened, the ministers state. They also call for the problem to be addressed of the distinction between state and party.
Reiterating the importance of good neighbourly relations and that a solution to the name issue “remains essential” (…), “there is a need to bring the longstanding discussions on the name issue to a definitive conclusion without delay”, the ministers state. They also hope the continued high level contacts between FYROM and Bulgaria will be translated into concrete action and results. (CG/transl.fl)