EU lawmakers say corruption is slowing North Macedonia's path to membership

European lawmakers say corruption, political divisions and problems in the courts are slowing North Macedonia's bid to join the European Union.

A report adopted by the European Parliament's foreign affairs committee backed the country's membership ambitions but said more reforms are needed before accession talks can move forward.

Lawmakers also urged political leaders to support constitutional changes required by the EU.

Despite the criticism, the report praised North Macedonia for keeping closely aligned with the bloc's foreign policy.