Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski held talks Tuesday with a group of Members of the European Parliament, including Jerzy Buzek (EPP, Poland), Tunne Kelam (EPP, Estonia), Miroslav Mikolasik (EPP, Slovakia) and Laszlo Tokes (EPP, Romania).

The talks addressed the ongoing reforms, political, economic situation in Macedonia and its EU-integration process.

Gruevski emphasized ongoing reforms for meeting the European standards and the Government's commitment to completing Macedonia's EU integration process. He also underlined the significance and benefits of Macedonia-EU High-Level Accession Dialogue, as well as the recognition of the country's progress in the last European Commission's report.

Gruevski extended gratitude to the MEPs on their engagement in, dedication to promoting Macedonia's interests. He also thanked to the European Parliament in general for supporting the country's development and EU-integration. Discussing the obstacles on this road, Gruevski affirmed Macedonia's initiatives for and commitment to advancing the good-neighbourly relations.

The MEPs said they and EP would keep voicing their support for launching of Macedonia's EU accession talks. They also commended the Government's reforms for overall development of the country.

In regard to the political situation in Macedonia, the MEPs considered that boycotting of the Parliament by some political parties did not contribute to the country's development. All political parties should demonstrate commitment, responsibility by their actions, the MEPs said, pointing out that a political dialogue should take place within state institutions.

The talks also addressed further bolstering of the relations, cooperation between Macedonia and the EU institutions, in particular with the European Parliament.