Hahn: Name dispute can be resolved with leadership and statesmanship

The name dispute between Macedonia and Greece can be resolved in near future with leadership and statesmanship in both countries, Johannes Hahn, the Commissioner for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations stated to Deutsche Welle.

“This is an issue which is ongoing for many years. There are certain sentiments, particularly in Greece, but I understand that the current Greek government is dedicated to resolve this issue, to find a solution with its neighbor. I am confident that this is achievable in the near future,” said Hahn in a statement to Deutsche Welle.

He said that it needs leadership and statesmanship not only to find a solution, but also to agree about it and to secure the necessary political majority.

“This is a challenge for the leaders of both countries. I am in constant contact with them, and they are very dedicated to it and they know this is important to find a solution because it cannot stay such unresolved problem between two countries in the centre of Europe,” Hahn said.

Asked whether the pictures as the protests in Athens makes him less confident for the process, Hahn said that he would not be in the wrong post If he is easily affected by such events.

“This is part of our daily business. It is a challenge, but we are working for a better Europe, better Europe means better living conditions for its citizens, in particular in the region, and this has also effect for us in the EU. That’s why we are doing this. Definitely it’s not easy, but it is necessary,” Hahn said.