Osmani: Name issue climate changed, Nimetz proposal awaited

The date for continuation of the name talks has already been defined. There is intensive communication with the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but we are also trying to enhance confidence-building measures at other levels, because this creates ambiance for the row’s settlement, said Vice Premier for European Affairs Bujar Osmani.

“I believe the climate has changed completely, messages from both sides are positive and now we await on the proposal of mediator Nimetz. He is expected to produce a concrete proposal that could represent the foundation for internal consensus and afterwards a solution”, Osmani told reporters at the sidelines of conference “Future of the Berlin Process” in Skopje.

Asked if a solution is possible in 2018, the Vice Premier said his task is to be optimistic and put pressure on institutions.

“The national consensus is very important, the historic responsibility of all of us is very important. It will be up to us to use this window of opportunity, the next four weeks and the coming six months”, said Osmani.

According to him, the opposition’s support would affect the process and added that the name issue agenda goes beyond partisan, individual and ethnic lines.

“This is a historic chance for all, let’s grab it and make progress in the European integration process. The opposition is aware of this and we will not allow daily politics to affect the name issue”, added Osmani.