Toskovski for IBBA: What is happening with the European process is more than a stall, it’s an injustice

What is happening with the European process is more than a delay, it is an injustice. The European idea must not be reduced to bilateral blackmail, says Interior Minister Pance Toskovski in an interview with the Independent Balkan News Agency (IBA) and emphasizes the commitment of the government of European reforms on the road to the EU, but also stresses that it is time for Europe to face the question: Conditions, « MIA’s correspondent in Athens said.

The interview of the Minister of IBA is during his visit to the Prespa municipality in Greece on Thursday, when things began for the construction of the Markova Leg – Lemos border crossing in the area of ​​Greek territory, and Toskovski speaks of the EU’s perspective, the co -operation with Greece,

For the new border crossing, Toskovski says it is more than an infrastructure project, « it is a symbol of maturity, responsibility and a European perspective », but also proof that we can build the future based on the common interests that our countries bring closer to Europe.

– For the Prespa region, this means new energy and economic and tourist and cultural. Local communities on both sides of the border get a new chance of development, and states show maturity and vision. This passage will not only associate the two countries, it will link people, history, nature and future representing a true European example of cross-border cooperation- the minister points out.

In parallel, he also refers to his portfolio and co -operation with the southern neighbor, stressing that « despite the political turbulence in the past, police co -operation between the two countries is at a really high level ».

He adds that the two interior ministries have active, continuous and practically oriented communication, in particular, as he says, in the area of ​​information exchange, joint operational activities and dealing with cross -border threats, and referring to talks with the Greek side of the situation at the Greek Passage and the Bogorodica – Evzoni – Evzoni.

– In the coming period we plan to intensify the dialogue with the Greek side to find sustainable solutions that will accelerate the flow of passengers at the Bogorodica – Evzoni border crossing, because it is the main communication artery, not only for our citizens, but also for tourists and transport operators. A quick and efficient passage there is a matter of economics, security and European integration into practice- the minister explained.

He positively assesses cooperation with Greece and on the migrant issue that explains that we, as a country, are on one of the key migration routes to Europe and therefore we have a serious role in dealing with this challenge, and although we are not an EU member, we are « acting as a true partner, professionally, responsible and in the interest of regional security. »

– With the Greek authorities there is operational communication, especially in the area of ​​exchange of information and coordination of activities. But the reality is that migration pressure is most strongly felt on our territory, where our forces do the work on the first line. And I can say for sure that they do it very successfully, the minister explains, adding that the Macedonian police daily protects the southern border of Europe, which is « our concrete contribution to European values, not declaratively, but on the ground, with realistic results ».

In an interview with IBA, as MIA reports, the minister also talks about the EU’s perspective, following Bulgarian demands, saying that what is happening in the European process is more than a stalemate, it is injustice, but also that « the European idea must not be reduced to bilateral blackmail. »

– As a government, we will continue to work on reforms, the rule of law, the fight against corruption, not because someone has imposed it on us, but because it is necessary for our society. But at the same time, we will say clearly and dignified our « enough ». It is time for Europe to face the question: is the Western Balkans really part of its future? If the answer is yes, then the doors should be opened with respect and partnership, not with new requirements and conditions- said Toskovski.

The Prespa Agreement explains that the party’s views are « well known and they do not change from today to tomorrow », but points out that « when it comes to running the state, responsibility is greater than emotion ».

– As a government, we fully know the international obligations that need to be respected, primarily to protect the state from new crises and blockades. This means that, regardless of our personal or political attitudes, we will act state, with dignity and clear purpose to ensure stability, prosperity and European future for our citizens- the minister explained.

Regarding the latest developments in the government coalition, he points out that « the government is stable, with a clear parliamentary majority and strong legitimacy obtained from citizens » and adds that political coalitions are part of the dynamics of every democracy, coming and leaving, but the state course must remain firm and clear.

– For us, the most important is the confidence of the citizens and the obligations we have towards them. Institutions are operating, reforms continue, and security and security remain our top priority. At this point, we do not have time for political calculations, but we have an obligation to deliver results and that is what we do- said Interior Minister Toskovski.