Thewesternbalkans
Timčo Mucunski, a deputy chairman of VMRO-DPMNE, was sworn in as a member of the new government of the Republic of North Macedonia (RNM) on Sunday evening, June 23. At just 34 years old, he immediately jumped into his new role, flying to Luxembourg the next day to represent North Macedonia at a meeting of the European Union’s foreign ministers and those from the six Western Balkan states (WB6). This significant event took place within the EU’s Foreign Affairs Council, organized by Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Mucunski attended the informal meeting as the new Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of RNM. It was Mucunski who was sent to Luxembourg, not his colleague Orhan Murtezani, the Minister for European Affairs from the Albanian coalition partner VREDI. This clearly underscores the firm grip VMRO-DPMNE leader Hristijan Mickoski intends to maintain over Skopje’s integration process.
Mucunski’s first day as Foreign Minister was notably focused on European integration—a symbolically powerful start. This symbolism is more a matter of coincidence, as the young politician immediately faced realpolitik. Just a day earlier, Mickoski had stated emphatically that the French proposal (the negotiating framework) would not pass under his watch and rejected any constitutional changes, referring to it as a “Bulgarian dictate.” Even before taking the oath, the new Prime Minister was already challenging key agreements like the Prespa Agreement with Greece, the Ohrid Agreement with the Albanians, and the Friendship Treaty with Bulgaria—all foundational to North Macedonia’s stability.
In Luxembourg, Mucunski likely received a clear message from his European counterparts and from Borrell: the principle of “pacta sunt servanda” (agreements must be kept) is essential for WB6 integration. This principle is crucial for ensuring a stable security environment in the region. The EU is keenly aware that appearing ready to make concessions could be counterproductive.
The new government in Skopje has been made to understand that without progress on constitutional changes, there will be no advancement in the negotiation process. Brussels acknowledges that the new North Macedonian authorities will need time to shift public opinion away from the pre-election rhetoric. The EU will rely on the Hungarian presidency, which prioritizes reinforcing trust in the European integration process of the Western Balkans. Hungary, with its close ties to VMRO, may try to influence Skopje to make the necessary steps towards EU accession. An EU-Western Balkans summit is also planned during Hungary’s presidency, to be held in one of the region’s countries.
Even though the EU foreign ministers’ discussion with their WB6 counterparts typically avoids bilateral issues, European diplomats stress the importance of good neighborly relations and the fulfillment of commitments on the European path—primarily referring to North Macedonia. In other meetings with WB6 representatives, Brussels has consistently condemned the negative trend of hate speech, violence, and hate crimes in the WB, including those directed against EU member states.
Mucunski assured his EU colleagues and senior officials that the new government of RNM is strongly committed to the European integration process. He promised reforms aimed at achieving real progress in the rule of law and the fight against corruption, to make North Macedonia a “true European success story.” RNM will rely on the Economic Growth Plan for the WB, which is key to the gradual integration of the WB6 with the EU and from which Skopje expects positive fiscal implications.
Educated in New York and Ottawa, Mucunski likely made a favorable impression on his first day, among officials like Borrell and Varhelyi. He articulated the right priorities: “The membership of Western Balkan countries is a geostrategic investment in the peace, stability, and security of Europe”; the new government in Skopje is “dedicated to accelerating the reforms leading to the ultimate goal—full EU membership as soon as possible.”
In Luxembourg, Mucunski reiterated Skopje’s commitment to progress toward full membership based on the values and criteria set by the EU itself. At the same time, according to him, the European integration process should not be burdened by bilateral disputes.
Clearly, Skopje plans to leverage diplomatic strategies to alter the negotiating framework, capitalizing on Brussels’ focus on the geopolitical and security challenges faced by its Balkan partners. The EU’s emphasis on the alignment of the WB6 with its foreign and security policies and its readiness to support deeper cooperation and integration provides a strategic advantage for North Macedonia.
