North Macedonia’s Foreign Minister Timco Mucunski, addressing the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) on October 3, reaffirmed his country’s unwavering dedication to European values, human rights and the rule of law.

Recently, the European Union has decided to separate the EU accession paths of Albania and North Macedonia, allowing Albania to move forward in its membership negotiations while North Macedonia remains delayed, pending the fulfilment of key obligations.

Speaking on the Council of Europe's 75th anniversary, Mucunski stressed the need for vigilance in protecting these values and called for reforms to strengthen the multilateral system against emerging challenges.

On North Macedonia's EU integration, Mucunski acknowledged the frustration of North Macedonia’s prolonged path to EU membership, despite two decades of efforts, reforms, and sacrifices, citing “increasingly unjust obstacles”, the Council of Europe said in a statement.

He recognised the emotional toll on the people but reaffirmed the nation's steadfast commitment to European values.

"The path may be long, but we remain committed to the values that Europe represents, and we will keep pushing for a process that is fair, transparent, and based on mutual respect,” he concluded.

Condemning Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Mucunski expressed North Macedonia's solidarity with Ukraine and support for mechanisms to address war damages and establish a tribunal for the crime of aggression. He stressed that while defence is vital, diplomacy is the key to lasting peace.

Mucunski also praised Lithuania's presidency of the Committee of Ministers, recognising its focus on gender equality, freedom of expression, and the fight against disinformation and corruption. He confirmed North Macedonia’s intent to work closely with future presidencies, as the country prepares for its own chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers in 2027.