German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated in Sofia that he insistently supports the attainment of agreement on the launch of EU accession negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania. “I think there is a chance headway will be made,” he said and added that the discussion and exchange will continue until the end of the French Presidency (30 June). Olaf Scholz stated further that Europeans bear the responsibility for the EU and for stability in the Balkans together, and that it is important to make use of the enlargement process, especially at this time,  to Europe’s advantage.

“Germany understands it is not easy to overcome historical disagreements between neighbouring countries but our experience shows that it is enriching for everyone when mistrust takes a step back and friendly relations with neighbours are built,” Chancellor Scholz said. According to him, there is an understanding in Skopje that action must be taken. The question is how this can happen.  

• Olaf Scholz: North Macedonia is ready to start EU accession negotiations
  

On his part, Prime Minister Kiril Petkov stated the three main priorities for Bulgaria to lift the veto on the start of North Macedonia’s EU negotiations: “First, we need to take a look at all ways that entering Bulgarians in the Constitution of the Republic of North Macedonia can be guaranteed through the European process so we can protect the rights of Bulgarians there. At the same time, we have a framework position and a goodneighbour agreement. So that any possible decision must include all of Bulgaria’s three priorities.”

Chancellor Olaf Scholz also held a one-on-one meeting with Bulgarian President Rumen Radev.