The EU, NATO membership remains a priority of Macedonia's foreign policy, Prime Minister Emil Dimitriev said Wednesday in his address at an annual working meeting of the heads of Macedonia’s diplomatic and consular offices.

"The active participation of Macedonian peace forces in NATO, EU and UN-led operations is the best indicator that the country, as credible partner of the Alliance and the international community, shares the common values and responsibilities," Dimitriev said, pointing out that Macedonia's accession to NATO would contribute to the stability and security of the Western Balkan region.

Macedonia's accession to the Euro-Atlantic organizations will mean a successful implementation of internal reforms and strengthen the defense-military capabilities of the country. Hence, NATO will obtain a credible ally, which will continue to efficiently contribute to the regional, global peace and stability, Dimitriev said.

Referring to the EU membership, Dimitriev said that Macedonia's progress to that effect, recognized by the European Commission recommendations thus far for opening of the accession talks, should now enter into effect.

"The Government has been paying attention to the urgent reform priorities and an implementation of measures that will respect them and bring progress," the PM said.

EU institutions, he said, have been closely monitoring the political situation in Macedonia, being rather familiar with the political crisis in the country. Macedonia has been facing the most complex, imposed political crisis, which is generating unfavorable economic consequences, Dimitriev said, calling on political parties to be responsible and fulfill their obligations.

"All political stakeholders, all of us, should be aware of responsibility to citizens and our meeting with them at election is the democracy's top priority. All Government-controlled institutions are doing their best for organizing fair and democratic elections - the only way out of the political crisis," Dimitriev said.

He also notified the EU's recognition of Macedonia's successful management of the migrant/refugee influx.

Dimitriev extended gratitude to Macedonia's diplomats serving abroad for their engagement thus far and urged them to keep working on realization of the country's strategic goals - the EU and NATO membership.