Tsipras: 2018 to bring positive developments, if Skopje takes positive steps forward


Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras expects changes in the Balkans in 2018 and positive developments related to the issue of Macedonia, if Skopje decides to take positive steps forward.

I consider that 2018 can be a year of crucial importance for various other issues that refer to this area. I would take the opportunity to mention the problems that we have been dealing with FYROM for years. As my friend Borissov mentioned, the issue of Skopje might bring some positive developments in 2018, if the new government in Skopje decides to take positive steps forward and to resolving this problem. If they give up rhetoric and statements that they are the only descendants of Alexander the Great and from their irredentist claims, then perhaps we could find a common solution. In that case, I would be the first to guarantee the European perspective, security and safety of that country. You know, we want to make a future in which we will all live and cooperate together peacefully. What divide us is lesser than what unite us, Tsipras said Saturday at the joint press conference with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and Romanian Prime Minister Mihai Tudose.

He added that this goal means that all countries to take some steps. That goal requires making clear cuts and taking clear positions on issues that are crucial, Tsipras said.

Four leaders are fully convinced that we should go forward, take courageous steps and further strengthen the cooperation to make the 2018 milestone for our countries, the Balkan region and in general for Europe and mainly for our people, because people are the ones we want to protect, Tsipras told press conference in Belgrade