| Abstrakt: |
It was set clear that the European perspective of the Western Balkans is a key priority for the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU (1 January - 1 July 2018). The membership in the EU is only workable way to achieve sustainable peace, security, economic growth and prosperity in the region. In this context the bilateral relations between Bulgaria and Macedonia are of utmost importance and many positive steps for strengthening and improving the political dialogue have been made, emanating with the signing of the signing and ratification of the Treaty of Friendship between the two countries. The author's main task is to analyze the current debate about the Euroatlantic perspective of Macedonia in the overall context of the integration of the Western Balkans, including the achievements and future challenges. There is a special focus upon the importance of building an active and aware civil society that is able to leave behind the contradictions of history and to look ahead and work with dedication to a 'united in diversity' future for the region. When we talk about united and secure Europe, we shall have no doubt that the Western Balkans need a clear European perspective. This is a salient topic for the Bulgarian Presidency and the future of the European Union and the aim is to come closer to an agreement for a clear action plan with each one of the countries candidates. The idea is not to create unrealistic, overloaded expectations. As Bulgarian prime minister said 'The enlargement has been talked about for a long time now and now is the right opportunity to make concrete steps forward." When presenting the priorities of the Bulgarian Presidency to the European Parliament Mr. Borissov pointed out the extremely good relations between Bulgaria and the Republic of Macedonia, which can serve as a role model for resolving long-standing bilateral problems. He underlined the importance of the infrastructure projects in the region that enable investment and tourism development. "The stability of the Balkans is directly linked to the stability of Europe; the solution is a European perspective. They expect it, they want it." (European Parliament, 17 January 2018 - Speech of Bulgarian Prime Minister Boiko Borissov). In February 2018 the European Commission adopted a strategy for "A credible enlargement perspective for and enhanced EU engagement with the Western Balkans." ThePresident of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker stated: "Investing in the stability and prosperity of the Western Balkans means investing in the security and future of our Union. Although there will be no further enlargements under this mandate, today the European Commission is charting the European path ahead for the Western Balkans. With strong political will, real and sustained reforms, and definitive solutions to disputes with neighbours, the Western Balkans can move forward on their respective European paths. Whether this is achieved will depend on their objective merits. The European Commission will be rigorous but it will also be fair. I will travel to each of the countries of the Western Balkans at the end of this month with a clear message: keep reforming and we will keep supporting your European future." (European Commission, Press release, 6 February, 2018). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
