North Macedonia will continue to uphold the 2018 Prespa Agreement with Greece despite differing personal or political views, the country’s Interior Minister said on Sunday, adding that Bulgaria’s stance in the European integration process amounts to “blackmail.”
“We are fully aware of our international obligations and will respect them in order to protect the country from new crises and blockades,” Interior Minister Panče Toshkovski told the Independent Balkan News Agency (IBNA). “Regardless of our political or personal views, we will act statesmanlike, with dignity, and with a clear goal to ensure stability, prosperity, and a European future for our citizens.”
The Prespa Agreement, signed with Greece, required the country to change its name to the Republic of North Macedonia and amend its constitution—a move that paved the way for NATO membership and potential EU accession.
Toshkovski gave a “positive assessment” of North Macedonia’s cooperation with Greece on managing migration, stating that the country lies on a key transit route to Europe and thus plays a critical role. “Although we are not an EU member, we act as a true partner—professionally, responsibly, and in the interest of regional security,” he said.
According to Toshkovski, there is operational communication between North Macedonian and Greek authorities, particularly in information exchange and coordinated actions.
Addressing Bulgaria’s role in the EU accession process, Toshkovski said the country is being unfairly held back. “What is happening to the country in the European process is more than stagnation—it is injustice,” he told the state-run MIA news agency. “The European idea should not be reduced to bilateral blackmail.”
He added that the government would press ahead with key reforms—strengthening the rule of law and fighting corruption—not because of external pressure, but because these are vital for domestic progress.
“At the same time, we will say clearly and with dignity: ‘Enough.’ It is time for Europe to face the question—are the Western Balkans truly part of its future?” Toshkovski said. “If the answer is yes, then the doors should be opened with respect and partnership, not with new demands and conditions.”