Bulgaria FM Concerned over 'Lack of Reform' in Macedonia

Lack of reform and political instability in Macedonia create a vacuum to the benefit of radical movements, Bulgarian Foreign Minister Daniel Mitov has said.

Mitov warned in an interview with public broadcaster BNT that any negative development in Macedonia could affect Bulgaria as well.

He had been asked to comment on the situation in Macedonia after a deadly incident in the town of Kumanovo and a wave of anti-government protests that rocked the country last week.

Bulgaria's top diplomat asserted that in his Monday telephone conversation with Macedonian counterpart Nikola Poposki he had offered Macedonia assistance in the country's push to preserve stability and territorial integrity.

"Macedonia is aspiring for EU membership. We as a EU member state have the obligation to help Macedonia, but the road goes through reform," Mitov made clear.

He urged political dialogue between the government and the opposition which would stabilize the country and would prevent any substantial moves by "radical elements."

In his words, EU membership tasks with Skopje have suffered delays not because of recent developments, but due to lack of change: "Our colleagues do not have that honest approach that our politicians do."

But he also stressed Bulgaria was not seeking to meddle in Macedonia's domestic policy.

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