Mickski: Jay Di Vance’s speech in Munich was inspiring ᐉ News from Fakti.bg – World

North Macedonia’s PM: ‘Macedonians Are Very Conventional’ & Support Trump

During a speech at a conservative political action in Washington,Prime Minister of the Republic of Northern Macedonia Christian Mickoski highlighted the strong conservative leanings of the Macedonian community in the United States. “The Macedonians are very traditional, they love their families, we may be small, but the Macedonian community in the United States is a very important part of American society.I know they supported President Trump during the election, they are conservatives and I know that they will continue to support President Trump,” Mickoski asserted.

Macedonian society & US Relations

Mickoski further described Macedonian society as “multi-thirds,” composed of two-thirds Macedonians and one-third albanians, Vlachs, Serbs, Turks, and others. He emphasized his country’s alignment with US President Donald Trump’s stance on illegal immigration, stating, “Northern Macedonia’s on the front, fighting against illegal migration by defending Europe from illegal migrants, which today is the main focus of US President Donald Trump’s government.”

The Prime Minister also stressed the strategic partnership between the US and Northern Macedonia, pointing out that his nation is one of the countries with the largest contribution to NATO per capita. “We devote (for defence) over 2 percent, we are engaged and supporting president Trump’s policies and we think 2 percent should be lower, not the upper limit,” he declared.

Vance’s “Inspiring” Speech

During the speech, Mickoski recounted how he was the only one at the Munich Security Conference who applauded Vice President Mike Pence’s address. “For me,it was a ancient event,and in my humble opinion,maybe some European politicians will be angry with me,this speech was very inspiring,” Mickoski remarked.

He addressed criticisms that Pence’s speech constituted interference in the domestic affairs of sovereign states by noting: “If this is not interior in the interior, then what is it? Double standards continue to this day.”

EU Membership & Double Standards

Mickoski emphasized the challenges Northern Macedonia faces in joining the EU, citing pressure to alter its constitution. “If the Constitution is not an inner matter of a sovereign state, then I ask – what is it? Is this honest? If someone criticizes speech (Vance), which, in my humble opinion, was very inspiring, he must first direct his finger to himself and see him (himself) what he does. European values ​​are not a bilateralization of the process of accession to the (European) union,” Mickoski concluded.

Mickoski’s remarks underscore the complex geopolitical landscape and the evolving relationship between the US and its allies in the Balkans. His passionate defense of Vance’s speech and his criticism of perceived double standards in the EU accession process reveal the challenges and tensions facing his nation as it strives for both closer ties with the West and a more autonomous path.

What are PM Mickoski’s thoughts on the “double standards” Northern Macedonia faces in its pursuit of EU accession?

An Insight into Northern Macedonia: A Conversation with Prime Minister Christian Mickoski

Strength of the Macedonian Community in the US

Archyde caught up with Prime Minister Christian Mickoski to discuss the strong conservative leanings of the Macedonian community in the United States and their political preferences.

Archyde: In your recent speech, you highlighted the strong conservative leanings of the Macedonian community in the US. Can you elaborate on what makes this community so conventional?

PM christian Mickoski: Indeed, the Macedonian community in the US is deeply rooted in traditional values.They are very family-oriented, which is something they’ve brought with them from our home country.They’re also known for their strong work ethic and community involvement, which resonates with conservative values.

Macedonian Society, US Relations, and NATO Commitment

Next, we discussed the geopolitical landscape of Northern Macedonia and its strategic partnership with the US.

Archyde: You’ve described Macedonian society as “multi-thirds.” How does this diversity influence your nation’s alignment with US policies, notably on illegal immigration?

PM Christian Mickoski: Our diversity has made us resilient, but it also requires us to find common ground. When it comes to illegal immigration, we stand with President Trump – we’re on the frontline defending Europe and sharing the burden. We’re NATO’s beating heart per capita, contributing over 2% to defense.

Archyde: That’s a significant commitment. What challenges does this pose, and how does Northern Macedonia balance its responsibilities?

PM Christian Mickoski: It’s challenging, but we believe in our alliance with the US and NATO. It’s not just about defense spending; it’s about standing united against common threats. And we think the 2% guideline should encourage, not cap, contributions.

EU Accession, Double Standards, and the Inspiration of Mike Pence

Lastly, we explored the complex dynamics surrounding Northern Macedonia’s EU accession process and the PM’s views on recent political speeches.

Archyde: You’ve been vocal about the challenges Northern Macedonia faces in joining the EU. Can you tell us more about the pressure on your country to alter its constitution?

PM Christian Mickoski: Yes, there’s pressure to amend our constitution as part of the ‘Prespa agreement.’ This is a sensitive issue for us. If the constitution is not an internal matter, then what is? We’re being honest about the need for reforms, but we can’t ignore the double standards we sometimes encounter.

Archyde: Speaking of honesty, you were the only one to applaud Vice President mike Pence’s speech at the Munich Security Conference. What made his speech so inspiring?

PM Christian Mickoski: his speech was clear,decisive,and reaffirmed the US’s commitment to its allies. I respect any leader who stands by their principles, even if it’s not always popular. I think some European politicians could learn from this.

So, what do you think, Archyde readers? How can Northern Macedonia best balance its commitments to the US, NATO, and EU ambitions?