Thomas Weitz: There is no doubt that Macedonians are Macedonians and that Macedonian language is Macedonian

The fact is that the European Parliament’s report on the Republic of Northern Macedonia mentions the Macedonian language and Macedonian identity, and I see no problem in that, says European Parliament (EP) rapporteur for the country Thomas Weitz in a statement to Bulgarian television BTV.

– With all the due respect – all cultures, identities and nationalities in Europe are closely intertwined. I say this as an Austrian, as a Slovenian, as a Hungarian, as a citizen of the European Union- says Weitz ahead of the European Parliament’s report on Macedonia’s report on Macedonia.

He said earlier in an interview with « 360 Degrees » that his draft report on Macedonia has several references to the recognition of the Macedonian language and the Macedonian identity, which he was attacked by Bulgarian MEPs, but according to him, « there is no doubt that Macedonians are Macedonians and that the Macedonian language is Macedonian ».

-In the draft document, as it is now, there are several references to recognizing the Macedonian language and Macedonian identity. I am personally sorry that this is needed, because there is no doubt that Macedonians are Macedonians and that the Macedonian language is Macedonian. Personally, I wouldn’t see the need to say that. But because of some issues that were asked, especially on the Bulgarian side, that Macedonian is an independent language that differs from the Bulgarian and that the Macedonian identity was questioned not only by Bulgarian neighbors, but earlier than Greek neighbors, it is necessary to mention this, and it is included in the draft report. The reality of the independent Macedonian identity and language is clearly mentioned- says Weitz.

He expects majority support for the European Parliament report.

– I expect a majority for a constructive report, as there are a large majority of groups in the European Parliament that support the process of accession to Northern Macedonia. So, I think it will result in a large majority. The report will be voted on next week, so the final result will be known when we see different members of the European Parliament, especially in the Foreign Policy Committee. But the prepared draft clearly addresses the necessary steps for the next phase- the opening of negotiations- said Weitz.