Europe must change its actions towards Balkan countries. They are not an issue, but an opportunity for Europe and Macedonia plays a key role for stability. If we want stability in the Balkans, then Macedonia will have to become a member of NATO and EU, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said at Thursday’s joint press conference in Skopje with his Macedonian counterpart Nikola Gruevski.

“In recent years, Europe has lost a lot of its credibility and must focus on finding ways to restore its influence in the world. The best way to do it is to deal with the Balkans,” noted PM Orban.

He added that support should not be only a result of sympathy, but also of interest.

Premier Gruevski said Hungary was a sincere friend of Macedonia with the two countries fostering excellent political and cordial relations. “Macedonia especially appreciates the support by Hungary and the Visegrad Group involving Macedonia’s integration into NATO and EU.”

“On this occasion, we were once again assured by PM Orban that Hungary’s support on prompt start of accession talks between Macedonia and the EU would be resumed with heightened intensity,” Gruevski added.

Today’s talks in Skopje focused on economic cooperation. Orban referred to the agreements signed in the government and the business forum, which is due later in the day.

“It offers an excellent opportunity for Hungarian and Macedonian companies to share experiences that could be of mutual interest. We want to collaborate in those areas in which you have interest, because we want to pass on our experience in relation to agriculture, water management, processing and recycling of waste materials,” said the Hungarian head of state.

He pointed out the need to build cooperation between younger generations thus laying the foundations for future friendship by providing 20 scholarships for Macedonian students to attend classes at Hungarian universities.

“It was jointly concluded that the countries’ economic ties are favourable,” Gruevski said adding that several action plans in the field of education, culture and environment had been signed.

PM Orban during his visit to Macedonia also met with Parliament Speaker Trajko Veljanoski.