Dimitrov: Katrougalos reassures that the Greek government remains committed to the Prespa Agreement

Macedonia’s Foreign Minister Nikola Dimitrov, after today’s resignation of Greece’s Defence Minister Panos Kammenos, spoke with his Greek counterpart, Georgios Katrougalos, who assured him that the Greek government remains committed to completing the work with the Prespa Agreement.

“Macedonia has solved the major problem related to its foreign policy, which pulled the country down for decades,” Dimitrov said.

“When the country joined the United Nations after gaining independence and building its statehood, the Security Council obliged us to resolve the difference over the name with Greece. In this respect the issue was the major foreign-policy problem that closed Macedonia’s door to prosperity and pulled the country down for decades. The country will no longer be referred to as the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia,” Dimitrov said.

After decades of backsliding Macedonia has finally opened its road to the EU, NATO membership and prosperity by resolving its major foreign-policy issue, Vice Premier and Defense Minister Radmila Sekerinska, Vice Premier for European Affairs Bujar Osmani and Foreign Minister Nikola Dimitrov said Sunday at a joint press conference as Macedonia’s Parliament decided two days ago to endorse the constitutional amendments, necessary for implementing the Prespa Agreement with Greece.

‘This is a major breakthrough which offers opportunity for our country and its citizens. In a short period Macedonia has managed to make a turn, being acknowledged by the whole world. The last year was not easy for us, but this success has proven that Macedonia is capable for a major breakthrough,’ Sekerisnka said. Macedonia, she said, has ensured its deserved place within NATO, which is a guarantee for stability and economic prosperity.

‘This year when NATO celebrates its 70th birthday Macedonia will take its place on the Alliance’s table as the 30th member state,’ she said. Now, the government will focus on reforms, social security and economic growth, Sekerinska said.

Osmani gave credit to politicians, citizens and all of those who consider Macedonia as homeland for the country’s historic achievement.

‘Now Macedonia is freed and protected from the geopolitical games of the major power centers, which present a threat to the entire region.  The negotiations leading to Macedonia’s EU membership status will result in endorsing the European standards in the spheres of rule of law, education, health care, culture…,’ Osmani said.