Austria is ready to support a creative diplomatic solution with Bulgaria and believes that implementing the enlargement policy is currently one of the EU’s top priorities, said North Macedonia’s President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova in an interview with Radio Free Europe’s Macedonian service, reports RFE.
According to Siljanovska-Davkova, Austria’s Minister for European and International Affairs, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, has expressed interest in hosting talks in Vienna to resolve the impasse with Bulgaria.
“Creative diplomacy is essential. We’re aware that the negotiation framework has been adopted and is difficult to amend, but Serbia’s case shows exceptions are possible,” she noted.
On EU Negotiations and Constitutional Changes
When asked about progress toward EU membership, the president said:
“Whether we’re closer or further from starting negotiations is relative. Even if talks begin, that doesn’t automatically mean progress.”
She emphasized that external demands for constitutional changes contradict the Lisbon Treaty and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, which stress the respect for constitutional structures and national identity of member states.
“I can’t promise constitutional changes will happen soon. I can propose them, but it’s Parliament that votes,” she said.
Austria’s Support and a Vienna-Based Dialogue
Siljanovska-Davkova confirmed Austria’s strong backing for the Western Balkans and acknowledged that Vienna might host future talks with Bulgaria.
“Austria understands the region’s aspirations. Though they support Ukraine and Moldova too, they believe the Western Balkans deserves more,” she stated.
Strategic Partnership with the UK
Regarding the €6 billion strategic partnership deal with the UK, she clarified that the agreement — covering infrastructure, healthcare, and education — falls under government jurisdiction.
“I support any solution that brings development and well-being,” she said, adding that this partnership is not an alternative to the EU path but rather a complementary initiative.
On Governance, Parliament, and Inclusivity
She reported having returned only one law with a veto in her first year and expressed satisfaction with institutional cooperation.
Addressing criticisms from the DUI party regarding ethnic representation, she insisted:
“Ethnic representation is a constitutional category. I’ve always respected it.”
She said appointments to commissions were based on professionalism and fairness, with attention to inclusive representation.
Commitment to All Citizens
Concluding the interview, Siljanovska-Davkova affirmed her dedication to being “a president for all citizens”, regardless of ethnicity, gender, or background.
“My legitimacy comes from the people. I work daily with all groups, especially the most vulnerable. Polls show broad trust in my leadership,” she concluded.
