The European Parliament started on Wednesday the debate on the report on Macedonia, prepared by rapporteur Erik Meijer, who believes that Macedonia should be given a date for start of the negotiations for membership in the European Union as soon as possible. EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn stated at the session that the EU would propose liberalization of the visa regime this year, A1 reports. The EU parliamentarians also expressed hope that the Greek Government would no longer exercise its right to a veto against Macedonia.

The European Parliament is expected to adopt a decision on this report today.