In March of 2020, North Macedonia reached two historic milestones. Following resolution of the 27-year name dispute with Greece, the EU approved the opening of accession negotiations with North Macedonia. Simultaneously, the country became the 30th member of NATO. While these are energizing developments, they occur against a backdrop of modest economic growth and continued concerns about cronyism, politicization, and corruption, as well as the harsh fallout from the unexpected COVID-19 pandemic and youth emigration. The United States recognizes the next period as critical to the country’s future as a prosperous ally that contributes to regional stability.
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