Statement by Federica Mogherini and Johannes Hahn on today’s developments in Skopje

We condemn in the strongest terms today’s ongoing attacks on the Members of the Parliament in Skopje. The acts of violence in the Parliament are wholly unacceptable and we call for calm and restraint. The Interior Ministry and the police must ensure the security of the Parliament and its members. 

Democracy must run its course. We take positive note of the election of Talat Xhaferi as Speaker of the Parliament, as reported.

The European Union is convinced that political dialogue in the institutions is the only way forward and we urge all political actors to honour the Constitution of the country and act in the spirit of democratic principles, decency and common sense.

The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is a candidate country and the European Union is ready to work with the Parliament on the necessary reforms to move the country forward on its European path.