Macedonia and Greece to have name talks with UN envoy
UN envoy to help with name dispute
A mediator from the United Nations is staying with Macedonia and neighboring Greece for talks on solving a name dispute that has entangled the two in their relations for almost 20 years.
Matthew Nimetz says both governments are “dealing seriously” with the problem the time has come for solutions.
Greece says its Macedonia’s use of the name “Macedonia” denotes territory claims on Greece’s own northern region which is also called Macedonia. Athens has previously blocked Macedonia’s NATO membership, citing the disputation, and is threatening to do likewise with Macedonia’s efforts to join the European Union.
Nimetz spoke after talks today with Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski. He will visit with Greek representatives later this week.
The debate came into being after Macedonia peacefully separated from Yugoslavia in 1991.
Is Macedonia Greece?
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