Nimetz says differences in positions of both countries, voices optimism

The process is moving forward, there is will for a solution on both sides. This positive moment needs to be used. Now is the right time to reach a solution so that the region finally moves forward, with the two countries resuming their cooperation and friendship, said United Nations envoy in the name issue, Matthew Nimetz after Thursday’s meeting with Foreign Minister Nikola Dimitrov.

Asked if his proposals include a change of the identity besides the name, Nimetz said he has yet not heard anything from the Greek side that would deny the identity of the people in Macedonia.

“I believe the solution, which is possible, is consistent. There are differences in positions of the two countries, but I am an optimist,” Nimetz told a press conference.

FM Dimitrov said this is an exceptionally important issue for the Macedonian citizens.

“We have full understanding regarding this aspect. We want this issue to be solved in a way that is considered as dignified in both countries. We understand citizens in Greece who identify themselves as Macedonians, but our Greek neighbors and no one else in 21.-century Europe can deny our right to be Macedonians and speak in Macedonian language, part of the Slavic group of languages,” he added.

Dimitrov said Nimetz’s support was important, but issued caution when releasing the finalized positions in the public. According to him, caution is very important for the solution, because the more there is talk about red lines in the public, the less room for talks and less chances for a mutually acceptable solution.

“There is will on our part, we hope for the same from the other side. If there is a way that respects identity and the dignity of both sides, we will find it. There might not be one, but we are obliged to try and find it,” the FM said.

He said talks focused on Nimetz’s ideas.

“There are some ideas that are not that bad and others that are cause for our concern. We will see how the process develops based on his input from Greece and the talks in Skopje,” underlined Dimitrov.