We've offered strong arguments elaborating the reasons why Macedonia should join the EU as soon as possible. Launching of EU membership talks will be beneficial for the entire region, because it sends a positive signal about region's EU integration, Foreign Minister Nikola Poposki told MIA.

On Wednesday, the FM took part at a conference organised by the Friends of Europe think tank and Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

"We believe that with Macedonia's arguments offered at these moments of crisis - in terms of responsible management of macroeconomic parameters and constant contribution to maintaining stability in the region - the country deserves to start EU talks as soon as possible. I hope that our southern neighbour (Greece) will recognise a chance for constructiveness and promotion of European spirit of cooperation in the region," Poposki said.

Participants at the conference asked the minister about Macedonia's expectations from the ICJ judgement, to which he responded: "Macedonia as a responsible United Nations member will abide by the judgement and international law".

Poposki elaborated that Macedonia had launched a lawsuit against Greece in a bid to secure legal safety that existed prior to 2008, when Greece "breached a provision of the 1995 Interim Agreement."