Greek diplomat Michael Rokas appointed head of EU delegation in North Macedonia
Rokas succeeds David Geer, following his appointment by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell. Prior to this role, Rokas served as the head of the EU delegation in Malaysia. He brings 30 years of experience in foreign affairs, having held significant positions including EU Chargé d'Affaires and head of the EU delegation in New Zealand, as well as head of the Delegations Support Department at the European External Action (EEAS).
On Friday, Rokas presented his credentials to North Macedonia President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova. During the credential presentation ceremony, Siljanovska emphasized that her country's ambition for full EU membership remains a key unifying factor for the majority of its citizens. She also highlighted that the EU is North Macedonia's most important economic and trade partner.
Rokas read out a declaration from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen: "Enlargement is an investment in our collective strength and security. We want a strong, competitive and secure Europe that includes the Western Balkans, as well as Ukraine and Moldova in our European Union." Rokas pledged to uphold EU values, human rights, the rule of law in his new role and detailed the economic support the EU provides to the Western Balkans.
AMNA