We used this opportunity to reaffirm our position that European Union membership remains Macedonia's top priority, said Prime Minister Emil Dimitriev in Valletta on Thursday.

Malta hosted the summit of European centre-right parties, which focused on the challenges for the EU and European People's Party (EPP).

"Discussions also included the EU integration of the Western Balkans, during which we reaffirmed Macedonia's position that Union accession remains the country's top priority. We tackled future challenges regarding the integration process and the possibility of a fresh migrant wave", said Dimitriev.

The Macedonian delegation held a number of bilateral meetings with heads of government and EPP officials.

"We highlighted the fact it is time for the EU to begin negotiations and opening of accession chapters, ultimately resulting the Western Balkans' integration in the European family", underlined PM Dimitriev.