The Przino Agreement is of overriding importance and this framework remains the best way to move the country out of the current crisis. Political leaders need to preserve and respect their political agreement and its core principles of rule of law, accountability, inclusiveness and credible elections, said European Commission Director General for Enlargement Christian Danielsson on Friday.
Over the past two days, Danielsson met with leaders of parties-signatories of the Przino Agreement Nikola Gruevski of VMRO-DPMNE, Zoran Zaev of SDSM, Ali Ahmeti of DUI and Menduh Thaci of DPA. He also met with representatives of the civil society, the Special Prosecutor's Office (SPO) and ambassadors of EU member-states.
"The EU is seriously concerned regarding the situation in the country. Political leaders and the relevant authorities must urgently address this situation, in the interest of the citizens and in order to bring the country back onto its Euro-Atlantic path", said Danielsson.
He added it is imperative that the presidential pardons are rescinded because in a candidate country for EU accession there must be full accountability and equal treatment before the law. Whilst legislation has been passed allowing for this to happen, he remains very concerned that no concrete action has been taken.
"There can be no impunity or selective justice", said Danielsson.
He stressed that the Special Prosecutor and her team must be allowed to do their job.
"This is essential to ensure accountability and restore confidence in the rule of law and citizens' trust in the judicial system", said Danielsson, expressing continuing deep concern about the undermining of the work of the Special Prosecutor's Office and explained that this is the red line for the international community.
He said all political forces now have the opportunity to implement much needed reforms and to prepare credible elections soon. Reforms need to be carried out in an inclusive manner.
"The Urgent Reform Priorities, which the four party leaders promised to implement a year ago, must move beyond token declarations of intent", stressed Danielsson.
Regarding the elections, the EU official said work should now continue urgently on the wellknown issues of the voters' list, balanced media coverage, preventing voter intimidation and separating state and party activities, so that future elections can be credible.
Danielsson acknowledged and supported all peaceful efforts by the civil society to ensure the necessary checks and balances, adding that diversity of views and freedom of opinion are key elements of European democracy.
He also stressed that the country needs more inclusive dialogue involving all sections of society.