North Macedonia’s President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova said on Wednesday that fulfilling the European Union’s Copenhagen criteria would make the country a “standard, boring European country,” while warning that vetoes are not a friendly instrument in the accession process.
Speaking after a meeting in Skopje with Croatian President Zoran Milanović, who is on an official visit to the country, Siljanovska-Davkova emphasized North Macedonia’s commitment to the EU path. The two leaders reaffirmed strong bilateral ties, Croatia’s continued support for North Macedonia’s EU bid, and cooperation within NATO.
“Croatia is a sincere friend and supporter of our EU aspirations. We share excellent political relations, with no open issues, and a mutual commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous region,” Siljanovska-Davkova said.
Milanović urged North Macedonia not to succumb to pressure or coercion in the EU accession process. “Don’t be victims of blackmail. Do things your own way—you are the ones who must decide what is important for your country,” he said.
He acknowledged Bulgaria’s opposition to North Macedonia’s EU bid, which has delayed progress, and warned that consensus among member states is still required. “As long as someone objects, North Macedonia cannot move forward,” Milanović said. “The real question is whether this is still the top priority for your citizens, or if there are other goals worth pursuing.”
Milanović noted that as a NATO member, North Macedonia is already secure. He said the country should be treated like any other EU aspirant, rather than as an exceptional case.
Referring to Bulgaria’s veto, Siljanovska-Davkova said it is not a friendly tool and could create further complications. “We must stay focused on our national agenda—economic development, education, science,” she said.
The president added that the country has made significant progress in aligning with EU legislation but continues to face politically sensitive issues tied to history, culture, and language—topics she said should not be up for negotiation.
She expressed hope that North Macedonia would not be left isolated in the accession process and stressed the importance of good-neighborly relations. “Citizens still support EU membership, but this situation is becoming unsustainable—not just for us, but for the credibility and integrity of the EU, particularly in its enlargement policy,” Siljanovska-Davkova said.
