The President of the Assembly, Afrim Gashi, met with Council of Europe (PACE) co-rapporteurs Sibel Arslan and Joseph O’Reilly to discuss North Macedonia’s progress since the last visit in 2019. The meeting underscored the Council of Europe’s essential role in European democratic development, especially concerning human rights and the rule of law.

The co-rapporteurs expressed interest in current political developments, with a particular focus on judicial reforms, the fight against corruption, and relations with neighboring countries. The mechanisms and recommendations of the Council of Europe in North Macedonia have historically been viewed as support for democratic advancement and have received considerable attention.

It is anticipated that the rapporteurs’ two-day visit will allow them to observe the progress made since 2019. The subsequent report, which will be presented to the Monitoring Committee and then to the members of PACE, is expected to provide an objective overview of the situation in the country.