Rehn: Macedonia capable to meet criteria for launching EU entry talks

Skopje, March 6 (MIA) - This year may be historical for Macedonia's EU-integration process. I believe that the country is capable to complete crucial reforms and meet criteria for launching the membership negotiations with the Union, Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn said Thursday in Skopje after meeting Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski.

Rehn, who brought the eight benchmarks that Macedonia should meet in the next few months, commended the country for its progress in boosting the political dialogue, combat against corruption and organized crime, judicial, police reforms.

The European Commission has set eight criteria that Macedonia should meet this year in other to get a date for launching the EU entry talks, according to the document "Western Balkans: Enhancing the European perspective", presented yesterday in Brussels.

The criteria cover the commitments undertaken under the Stabilization and Association Agreement, dialogue between political parties, implementation of the law on police and anti-corruption legislation, reform of the judiciary and public administration, as well as measures in employment policy and for enhancing the business climate.

- I am certain that with sufficient political determination and sustainable efforts, the necessary progress can be achieved. It also requires more efficient functioning of the Parliament and administration, Rehn said.

Gruevski said he briefed the high guest on Macedonia's progress in terms of the political dialogue, combat against crime and corruption, economy and implementation of the Framework Agreement. He believed that Macedonia-EU visa liberalization dialogue, launched last month, would be completed by the yearend, allowing to Macedonian citizens to enjoy the free visa regime starting from 2009.

- All of these eight benchmarks, pointed out by the European Commission, are part of our agenda. The Government has reviewed and worked out a plan to this effect that we may submit to EC  in order to get positive grade and Macedonia to get a date for launching the (membership) negotiations, Gruevski said.

In the meeting of required criteria, the Government is hoping for the opposition's assistance, its constructiveness and help for the sake of the country's progress, Gruevski said.

In regard to Skopje-Athens dispute over Macedonia's name, Rehn encouraged Macedonian authorities to keep on with their constructive contribution to finding mutually acceptable solution with Greece.

- The solution would be beneficial for the both parties and would have favorable effect on the (EU) integration process, Rehn said.