SKOPJE, Nov. 6 (Xinhua) -- Macedonia expects the European Union (EU) to open accession talks in June of 2018, Macedonian Prime Minister's press office cited PM Zoran Zaev as saying Monday in Vienna.
According to Premier's cabinet, Zaev addressed the 14th Economic Forum "Future Dialogue 2017" where he stated that Macedonia expected a clear road map for its EU accession process.
"It is a high time for the EU's large investment in the Western Balkans to be crowned with the region's integration with the European Union and NATO," Zaev said.
The prime minister further noted that Macedonia's government had demonstrated strong commitment to meet the EU membership criteria, implement the necessary reforms and settle the open issues.
"The first, crucial step is setting the date for opening the accession talks by June 2018, based on the results we shall present in implementing the reform plan 3-6-9. Europe is more powerful, both from economic and political aspect and we should work together to take advantage of the new momentum," Zaev said.
"One of the Macedonia's government top priorities is to ensure a sustainable economic growth, thus ensuring the country's progress on its road to the EU, NATO membership," Zaev said.
