Speaking at a joint press conference with North Macedonia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Timcho Mutsunski, Tajani made it clear that Italy is invested in accelerating the integration of the Western Balkans into the EU.
“This visit is not merely formal but a clear message of Italy’s dedication to helping fast-track the accession process,” Tajani stated, emphasising the significance of North Macedonia as a “friendly country” to Italy. He also highlighted the role Italian businesses could play in North Macedonia’s growth, revealing that he had met with entrepreneurs keen to invest in the country. “There are many opportunities for investment, and this government will strongly support investors,” he added.
Tajani’s visit comes ahead of the upcoming “Friends of the Western Balkans” meeting in New York, where both ministers are set to meet again, further underlining Italy’s belief in and backing of the region’s future within the EU.
Minister Mutsunski hailed the visit as particularly significant, noting that it was the first official visit from a European foreign minister since he took office. He highlighted the deepening cooperation between the two nations, and the assurance he received of Italy’s ongoing support for North Macedonia’s European integration efforts. Predictability on the path to EU membership remains crucial, Mutsunski said, expressing confidence in Italy’s steadfast backing in this process.
