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High-level diplomats from EU member states have confirmed that the Republic of North Macedonia will almost certainly block the talks on EU membership.
The next EU Council was expected to adopt the negotiating framework on December 8, Skopje-based news agency MIA reported, as quoted by BGNES.
At a meeting of the Permanent Representatives of the EU Member States today, the conclusions that will be adopted by the Foreign Ministers next week were discussed.
The conclusions eliminated the possibility of including a date for holding the first intergovernmental conferences with Albania and North Macedonia due to Sofia’s veto on Skopje.
The dates will be included in the negotiation framework itself in your vote, diplomats explained. This is an alternative option and a last chance to make a breakthrough during the German Presidency of the Council of the EU.
Given the situation, there is no great hope for an intergovernmental conference and the start of talks with North Macedonia this year, MIA said, citing a Western diplomat.
At today’s meeting, Bulgaria reiterated that it will not give North Macedonia the green light for the next Council of Ministers on December 8.
As for Albania, the situation with Albania remains unclear. According to some member states, there should be a “stronger solution for Albania”, but it is unclear whether Tirana will be approved for the start of negotiations this year, diplomatic sources said.
Countries that support EU enlargement believe the final conclusions should be more specific, even if they do not include dates.
It is clear that consultations on the issue are ongoing and the Permanent Representatives will meet again on Wednesday.
Bulgaria
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