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The following was originally posted by akritas


‘We are ready to join NATO as FYROM’

President Branko Crvenkovski talks about the ‘Macedonia’ issue, the UN-mediated talks with Greece and the future status of Kosovo

The substance of a final resolution is more important than solving the problem speedily,’ said FYROM President Branko Crvenkovski with regard to Greece’s objections to his country’s use of the name ‘Macedonia,’ a problem he fears will not be resolved anytime soon.

By Stavros Tzimas - Kathimerini

The government in Skopje is ready to join NATO as the «Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia» (FYROM), its president, Branko Crvenkovski, told Kathimerini in this wide-ranging interview in which he said that Skopje would not back down in any way in the search for a mutually acceptable solution to the dispute with Greece over Skopje's use of the name «Macedonia.»

«We have already made too many concessions,» he said in presenting his government's position amid reports from Greece of the possibility of early elections because of the situation with FYROM.

Crvenkovski does not believe that UN mediator Matthew Nimetz will abandon his mandate to find a solution to the problem. He rejects accusations by Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis of intransigence and irrendentism on FYROM's part. As for FYROM's political priorities in view of its desire to join NATO, he claims that his country is «ready to join NATO under the name used at the UN,» that is FYROM. Given the reference in the interim agreement that Greece will not prevent FYROM's accession to any international organization if it uses that name, this might change Athens's position regarding a possible veto of FYROM's accession to NATO.
As for Kosovo, Crvenkovski said Skopje would unilaterally recognize it as an independent state if recognition were forthcoming from NATO and the European Union.


How did you view the Greek prime minister's recommendations that your government abandon its intransigence over the name issue?


The Republic of Macedonia has adopted a constructive approach and has displayed good will in the talks held in New York. Believe me when I say that we would like more than anyone else in the world to find a solution and to do away with the anachronistic and derogatory term «Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia,» and I mean that.

I would like to remind the Greek public that in October 2005, we accepted the last proposal of UN mediator [Matthew] Nimetz as firm ground for further talks. That was not a hasty decision, nor was it easily arrived at but was an indication of our good will.

Unfortunately, Athens did not accept the proposal. In actual fact, we, the Republic of Macedonia and our citizens, have already made too many concessions. We have amended our constitution and changed the state's flag, a decision that hurt us here in Macedonia. Finally, we accepted Nimetz's last proposal as a good basis for talks but unfortunately Greece rejected it and the procedure did not move forward.

Still, Greece appears to desire, justifiably it seems, that you take another step. Even (former prime minister Constantine) Mitsotakis has asked you to meet Athens halfway. Are you willing to do that?


Until now we have taken difficult steps and what I can tell you know is that not only have we come halfway, but half that distance again.

The Greek prime minister, nevertheless, has drawn attention to irredentist acts on the part of Skopje. What is your response to that?


The Republic of Macedonia has no territorial claims on any of its neighbors, including Greece. In order to avoid any misunderstanding, we have clearly stated in our constitution that we will not intervene in the sovereign rights of other countries or in their domestic affairs. I am convinced that there is no reasonable argument that our constitutional name, nor the Republic of Macedonia as a state, could be a threat to Greece's territorial integrity.

As far as I recall, during your premiership you had avoided actions that might have harmed the climate in relations between the two countries. So do you think that renaming Skopje airport as «Alexander the Great,» which as you know raised protests in Greece, was to any purpose?


Our government has publicly explained the reasons that led it to rename the airport. Among those arguments there is not one that could harm our neighbor Greece. Unfortunately, there were strong protests, followed by several harsh accusations and statements. I hope that in the future both sides will be more discreet and rational.

There is the sense in Greece that during US President George W. Bush's visit to Tirana within the next few days, your country's accession to NATO will be sealed. Is that the message you are getting?


The USA and President Bush are enthusiastic supporters of a new enlargement of NATO, hence our ambitions to join the alliance as a full member. Of course, in the near future they expect us to present substantial and tangible results with regard to reforms and to confirm our readiness and ability to join NATO. I believe that the meeting between President Bush and the three prime ministers of the Adriatic nations - Macedonia, Albania and Croatia - in Tirana will result in strong encouragement to proceed with and fulfill the necessary criteria. Nevertheless, the relevant decision will be made at the NATO summit next year.

Would your side agree to join NATO under the name FYROM, which would enable Athens to refrain from exercising a veto?


Naturally, our accession to NATO under our constitutional name would be the most satisfactory for us. Nevertheless, if no solution to the dispute is found before we join NATO, we are ready to become a full member with the name with which we are currently referred to at the UN, as a temporary solution.

As an experienced politician, you know as much as anyone about the dispute with Greece. Do you see the issue being resolved soon, and, if so, how do you think it will remain an open wound in relations between neighbors that in other respects claim to be friends?


The question is a very delicate one, both sides are particularly sensitive about it. So, based on past experience, it is very difficult to be optimistic and foresee a speedy resolution. Considering the great importance of this question for my country, it is clear that the substance of the final outcome is far more important than a speedy solution. It is a question of safeguarding our constitutional name and cultural integrity, issues of the utmost priority for every country.

Nimetz will continue


Based on what you know, do you think it likely that UN mediator Matthew Nimetz will surrender his mandate in the fall and, subsequently, that there will be recourse to the Security Council?


I have no information, at least to date, that such a scenario is likely. On the contrary, given Nimetz's recent statements, I am convinced that he will continue to help both sides within the framework of the mission delegated by the UN secretary-general.

On Kosovo, joint policy with NATO and EU


Are you worried about the apparent stalemate on Kosovo?



I must say that this issue is very important for us, as we are neighbors. We cannot influence developments in Kosovo but we will suffer the consequences as we have a common border. What we wanted is not feasible: That is for Pristina and Belgrade to agree. Nor am I optimistic that this could happen in future since their positions are not only different but completely opposed.

That means that the international community must solve the problem and the best way is with a UN Security Council resolution. In that case, we, as a UN member, will accept the resolution. That will also create the legal framework for an international military and political presence. That is very important because (that) will be a guarantee that the situation can be kept under control. If there is a veto from Russia or for any other reason, then the situation will worsen.

I can tell you what our position will be if there is no resolution. We, as a candidate country for accession to NATO and the EU, will follow the joint policy of those two organizations. However, the situation could become more complicated if NATO and the EU do not formulate a joint policy. I hope that this will not happen, because that will have unforeseeable consequences both for NATO and the EU. Our own interest as a state is to maintain good relations with both Pristina and Belgrade. Our policy is not to build new bridges by knocking down old ones.


If there is no resolution, and the ethnic Albanians in Kosovo declare independence which is then unilaterally recognized by other countries, what will you do then?


As I said, we will follow the joint policy of NATO and the EU. If their position is to open up diplomatic relations and recognize Kosovo, then that is what we will do.

Do you see a risk of complications in your country from negative developments in Kosovo?


We are neighbors but I do not think that domestic developments in Kosovo will affect us directly. However, we are following the situation closely because there is a risk that the destabilization of Kosovo could spread to neighboring countries. If we are talking about stability in our country, then how we deal with interethnic issues is even more important than what happens in Kosovo.

What progress has been made in the Ohrid Accord, the basis of your interethnic relations?


I can tell you that most of it has been implemented and that since 2001 we have made great strides. Today interethnic issues are not the main issue in the country's political life. There is more discussion of economic and social problems and that is a good sign. However, so as not to be misunderstood, I believe that the interethnic issue is particularly important for political stability and should not be underestimated. Although interethnic tension has been reduced, it is still a factor that needs particular attention.

ekathimerini.com | ‘We are ready to join NATO as FYROM’ (http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_ell_100006_04/06/2007_84094)

Skopje's friendship offensive - ekathimerini.com | Skopje’s friendship offensive (http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_columns_100022_14/08/2007_86768)

Originally posted by Truth Bearer

FYROM and the name dispute
Kathimerini

Dr Aristotle Tziampiris

As the recent Greek election campaign amply demonstrated, the Macedonian name dispute continues to have the ability to produce headlines and affect voters. Much abused in the past by partisan strategies and personal agendas, it is imperative to take an objective look at the parameters surrounding the issue today based on a realistic assessment of what is feasible. This article will not dwell on the historical and cultural aspects of the dispute (others have done so remarkably well, publishing – in this author’s assessment – very strong arguments in support of various Greek positions). Rather, we will concentrate on the contemporary political and international realities that will determine the possibility for a final resolution of the name issue.

Diplomats and decision makers striving toward achieving such a goal should keep in mind the following:

1. There is no possibility that a Greek government will willingly acquiesce to the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) being given a name for international use that is identical to the young republic’s constitutional name. To do so would be to ignore legitimate popular sensitivities and concerns, thus courting serious electoral punishment. Furthermore, politicians are understandably loath to officially endorse with their signature their country’s international humiliation. A compromise is perhaps feasible but not on the basis of an agreement that would be tantamount to the capitulation of the Greek side.

2. On April 13, 1992, the Council of Party Leaders in Athens endorsed a position (with the exception of the Greek Communist Party) according to which FYROM is not to be recognized if the term Macedonia is included in its name. This position appears to have been tacitly updated by various Greek governments. For example, the Simitis administration reportedly pursued a deal on the name “Gornamakedonia” (meaning Upper Macedonia). Also, the previous Costas Karamanlis administration, by accepting as a basis for negotiations the first (March 2005) proposal by United Nations Special Envoy Matthew Nimetz (suggested name: “Republika Makedonija-Skopje”), communicated that it will not necessarily be bound by the April 1992 decision. In other words, it is very probable that any final agreement on the name dispute will be based on a climb-down from Athens’s stricter and popular position of the past. This attitude, however, has not been reciprocated by successive governments in Skopje that have been unwilling to discuss a meaningful compromise on the name issue, steadfastly sticking to a dual name formula according to which the state’s international name should be the same as its constitutional one, Greece alone being allowed to choose another name with Skopje’s concurrence.

3. The popular resonance of the Macedonian name dispute in Greece should not be underestimated. Even if long periods of relative calm and silence are observed, it still has the potential to raise emotions and elicit strong reactions, particularly in Greek Macedonia. The election to Parliament of the right-wing party LAOS and New Democracy’s slim majority (152 MPs out of 300) diminishes the government’s room for diplomatic maneuver and reduces (but does not necessarily negate) the political space for an agreement.

4. Even if an agreement is reached soon, it would be unfair to judge it politically or otherwise, in isolation. There is a long list of failed diplomatic initiatives spanning some 16 years (the Pinheiro package, the O’Neil report, the Vance-Owen plan, the Interim Accord that was inconclusive on the name issue, Nimetz’s two different sets of proposals in 2005). Their careful examination allows certain observations to be made. The tendency has usually been for each successive proposal to be less appreciative and supportive of Greece’s positions. Furthermore, the most recent mediative effort (Nimetz’s second in September 2005) was the worse for Greece. In addition, some 124 countries have recognized FYROM with its constitutional name for use in their bilateral relations, Canada being the latest; and if mediation at the UN level terminates inconclusively, the consequences might prove especially negative for Athens. The conclusion is thus inescapable: Time has not been on Greece’s side on the issue of the name dispute.

5. The recent renaming of Skopje and Ochrid airports (“Alexander the Great” and “Saint Paul” respectively) constitute an unwarranted provocation, probably indicative of a certain degree of arrogance. These are not acts conducive to a resolution of the dispute.

6. The continuation of FYROM’s existence and territorial integrity is in Greece’s best interest, not least because the neighboring republic has the potential of operating as an almost textbook buffer state. At the same time, it should be noted that since the signing of the Interim Accord, the normalized and now excellent economic bilateral relations have not been deemed sufficient to solve the name dispute, although it may be worth pondering what the situation between Skopje and Athens would have been without such an improvement.

7. Greece’s ultimate interest in the Balkans requires regional stability and prosperity. This is why Athens supports the Euro-Atlantic prospects of all the Western Balkan states. Given that FYROM’s NATO membership is likely to be decided in a few months, a certain urgency and potentially huge complication is now added to the name issue.

8. FYROM’s entry into NATO with its provisional name is permissible under the terms of the relevant article of the Interim Accord. This is the formula that allowed FYROM to become a European Union candidate state, and may also resolve the issue of its NATO membership. However, it is increasingly becoming less politically feasible and clear that Athens will sign up to such an outcome, especially when it can be argued that Skopje is violating other articles of the accord. The specter of an impasse and of a Greek veto on the alliance’s enlargement, at a somewhat problematic time for NATO, can thus not be entirely precluded. Given all of the above, a possible way out would involve a third (and possibly final) proposal submitted by Matthew Nimetz at the United Nations level, acceptable to both sides and addressing not only the name issue, but also educational, cultural and economic aspects of the dispute. A genuine bilateral willingness for an agreement would be required, as would international (and especially US) pressure on Skopje.

Time is running out and we are perhaps looking at the last chance for an internationally mediated resolution of the Macedonian name dispute. Given that all previous ones have failed, one can only remain guardedly optimistic.

Dr Aristotle Tziampiris is assistant professor of international relations at the University of Piraeus and a research associate at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP). The views expressed here are strictly personal.

Originally posted by Amarantos

Deputy FM warns FYROM on name dispute

Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's (FYROM) intransigence in its name dispute with Greece may have serious repercussions in the landlocked republic's course towards Euro-Atlantic institutions, Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valynakis warned from Washington on Thursday, after his meeting with U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs Daniel Fried.

Greece "means what it says on the issue demanding from all countries which are interested in becoming members of the European Union (EU) or NATO to follow a policy of good neighbourliness and implement the committements they have undertaken," Valynakis said, after his meetings with Fried and Assistant to the Deputy State Secretary Rosemary di Carlo.

Talks also focused on bilateral relations, developments on the Kosovo issue and Greek-Turkish relations.

Valynakis reiterated Greece's position that Turkey can become a full EU member on condition it abides by all criteria and all preconditions set by the Union.

The Greek minister discussed these issues also with State Department Deputy Undersecretary Matthew Braiza during a reception hosted by Greek Ambassador Alexandros Mallias.



In statements after his talks at the State Department, Valynakis said that Greece's role is that of a factor of stability and peace for all countries in the region.



"Our adherrence to our strategic aim, that is to transform Balkans from what it was - a powder-keg of Europe - to a region of cooperation in a European neighbourhood is well known," he said.



On the issue of Kosovo he said he explained to his interlocutors that "we are trying for a solution to be found, a solution which will be mutually acceptable, a solution safeguarding stability in the entire region, a solution based on international legality, that is through UN Security Council resolutions, a solution which will be based also on European principles. That is why it is necessary to give more time to diplomacy, so as for these solutions to be found and we hope that the Troika will contribute towards this direction."

On the FYROM issue, Valynakis said that Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis had made "clear to the American side a few days ago, and I think the message was understood, that intransigence can not lead to any positive result, that intransigence can have serious repercussions on Skopje's course towards Euro-Atlantic institutions."

Deputy FM warns FYROM on name dispute (http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/selectlang?lang=el&currpageurl=%2Fuser%2Fshowplain%3Fmaindoc%3D575952 6%26maindocimg%3D5707974%26service%3D100)

FYROM STANCE

PM tells Merkel Greece will block EU, NATO bids if name solution not found

Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis yesterday impressed upon German Chancellor Angela Merkel Greece’s determination to push for a solution to its dispute with the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) regarding the latter’s name before Skopje proceeds with its possible accession to NATO. “It is inconceivable for FYROM to join NATO or the EU without a mutually acceptable solution to the name dispute,” Karamanlis is reported to have told Merkel on the sidelines of a European Council summit in Lisbon. According to sources, Greece’s PM hinted that Athens would exercise its veto if necessary. Karamanlis was due to meet French President Nicolas Sarkozy later yesterday.

ekathimerini.com | In Brief (http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100025_20/10/2007_89172)

I was looking at Antenna TV yesterday, they were reading the headlines from the papers, in one paper from memory it may have been Press Time but I may be wrong the headline was "Put in the Veto if you want" we dont care- comments attributed to skop foreign ministers milososki or whatever his name is...

the greek government should now ask FYROM to withdraw its candidacy for NATO and the EU. They should do it on there own. Why wait for Greece to VETO! The skops seem to not want to be in NATO or the EU so how about it- how about they withdraw there candidacies. Or is this just another "Im a victim of big bad Greece" bluff.

Stuff them. VETO them even as FYROM on the basis of failing in terms of good neighborly relations. Renaming airports, propaganda and the rest is more than enough reason. Greece must VETO even the name FYROM.

Damn right.

Damn Straight!!!

The Skopjians think that their great friernds the Yanks,Russians and Chinese will help them....I mean as they give two hoots really!!They are overestimating themselves as usual.

PM: Only mutually acceptable solution to 'name issue' possible

Only a definitive and mutually acceptable solution and proof, in action, of the agreements and the principles of good-neighborliness can ensure objective opportunities for an alliance, partnership and solidarity relations with FYROM, Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis stressed on Friday in Parliament, adding that no other path existed for the neighbouring country's accession to Euro-Atlantic institutions.



"This is clear and succinct," Karamanlis said, speaking during his institutional response to the opposition, and in response to a question tabled by Popular Orthodox Rally (LA.OS) leader George Karatzaferis regarding the government's positions on the FYROM "name issue".



Karamanlis said that Athens and Skopje have been engaged in negotiations for approximately 15 years, aimed at finding a mutually acceptable solution on the basis of a composite name.



"There is no change of direction. What exists is frankness, determination and a constructive spirit" on the part of Greece, the Greek prime minister said, adding that "these long-standing negotiations have already entered a new stage, one of great importance".



"Only a definitive and mutually acceptable solution, only active respect of the Agreements and the principles of good neighbourliness can 'unlock' and ensure objective prospects for alliance relations, partnership relations, relations of solidarity with the neighbouring country. There is no other road that leads to its (FYROM's) accession to Euro-Atlantic organisations. This is clear-cut; succinct words," Karamanlis said.



The prime minister further said that any perception that the responsible parliamentary procedure, the procedure set out in the country's Constitution, was a process of "reduced democracy" was "erroneous and dangerous", stressing that Parliament was fully able to ratify a prospective agreement with FYROM on the name issue if such an agreement was achieved.



The Constitution, he explained, "does not rule out the choice of other procedures, such as a referendum', adding that "it does not, however, gradate democratic sensitivity and responsibility".



"If and when a final agreement arises, parliament can responsibly fulfil its own duty," the prime minister stressed.



Nov. 16, 2007. ANA-MPA.

PM: Only mutually acceptable solution to 'name issue' possible (http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=5887736&maindocimg=5866229&service=6)

Athens urges Skopje move

http://www.ekathimerini.com/kathnews/images/dot_clear.gif PM asks FYROM to drop defiant stance; UN envoy to visit next month


Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis yesterday called upon the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) to drop its intransigent stance in the name dispute with Greece and cooperate in finding a solution if it wishes to be taken seriously as a potential member of NATO.

“Skopje must meet us halfway so we can settle on a mutually acceptable solution,” Karamanlis told Parliament.

Karamanlis’s comments came as sources told Kathimerini that United Nations envoy Matthew Nimetz, charged with mediating the name dispute, is due in Athens next month, probably on December 3 and 4.

The PM had been responding to a question by far-right LAOS leader Giorgos Karatzaferis who accused the government of a “political shift” on the FYROM issue and called for a referendum on whether the country should be considered as a candidate for European Union membership.
Karamanlis rejected the call for a referendum, saying there was a “broad consensus” among political parties on matters of national interest and that the issue would be debated in Parliament.

“National interests are harmed when they are subordinated to partisan expediencies,” Karamanlis said.

But Karamanlis’s sternest words were reserved for FYROM authorities who, he said, “must realize that persistence and intransigence do not build alliances... nor does obsessively hostile propaganda or irredentist logic.”

FYROM must demonstrate that its behavior is in keeping with NATO and EU member states if it wants to join these clubs, the premier added. “It must prove that it wants to be an ally and a partner, it must show respect for international law, and it must fulfill all preconditions, without exception,” Karamanlis said.

Athens has said it will consider a composite name for FYROM, which would clearly differentiate the Balkan state from the region of Macedonia in northern Greece. FYROM has refused to consider an alternative to its “constitutional name” which, it says, is the Republic of Macedonia.

ekathimerini.com | Athens urges Skopje move (http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100002_17/11/2007_90202)

Athens News - Greece sees 'momentum' on Skopje (http://www.athensnews.gr/athweb/nathens.prnt_article?e=C&f=&t=01&m=A09&aa=1)

Burns: Skopje must be sensitive to Greek concerns

MADRID (ANA-MPA) -- Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis held talks here on Thursday, on the sidelines of the OSCE's ministerial session in Madrid, with US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Nicholas Burns, who called on the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) to show sensitivity to Greek concerns over the "name issue".

Burns called on the government of Skopje to show greater sensitivity for Greek public opinion and for the Greek government and realise that some of their actions were very provocative. Burns said after his meeting with Bakoyannis.

Referring to the same issue, the Greek minister said that "we are ready to attend constructive dialogue and negotiating and we are expecting Mr. (UN special mediator Matthew) Nimetz in Athens in the coming days with this spirit."

Burns made the following statement to the Greek press: "I had a long discussion with Mrs. Bakoyannis, whom I listened to very carefully. I mentioned to her that that I told the Foreign Minister of FYROM (the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia), A. Milososki that we believe that the prime minister and the government of Skopje must show greater sensitivity for Greek public opinion and for the Greek government. They must realise first that some of their actions were very provocative. Having lived many years in Greece, I understand the importance of the issue for the people and the government of the country. We requested from Mr. Nimetz to become involved again and we hope that a solution will be found that both countries can support. The government of Skopje must realise that it has the responsibility of meeting Greece halfway and show sensitivity for Greek concerns. Some actions by Skopje were unnecessarily provocative. We realise the importance of the heritage of Macedonia in Greek history, the modern-day political stage, in the hearts and minds of the Greeks. We hope that progress will be achieved and you must be certain that the United States will support a solution agreed to by both sides."

The two officials also discussed the Middle East issue and the recent Annapolis conference, from where the Greek delegation arrived to attend the meeting in Madrid, as well as the question of Kosovo.

Burns praised Greek presence at the international conference on the Middle East, saying, "I am pleased that Greece participated in the Annapolis conference as a full member. I am grateful to Mrs. Bakoyannis for the support she is offering for efforts to achieve peace between Israel and the Palestinians, for the creation of a Palestinian state after 60 years and the creation of conditions of security in Israel. The role of Greece, which is being involved in this procedure, is very important. The Annapolis conference was a great success. We must continue the hard work now, continue this process and achieve further progress."

Referring to Kosovo, Burns said that efforts are being made, in the framework of the OSCE, to achieve a good development on the issue.
He conceded that "the coming months will be very difficult since there will be a transitional period there" and expressed the hope that "this will happen peacefully, with stability and there will be no violence."
Commenting on her meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, she said that they ascertained the very good level of economic and political cooperation and discussed the agenda of Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis' visit to Moscow.

FM spokesman on FYROM

Asked by Greek reporters to comment on Greece's reaction in the event that the government of Skopje "makes some move for the sake of impression" by lifting the renaming of Skopje's international airport, an eventuality that the neighbouring country is reportedly considering, according to press reports, foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos said that "such a thing would not constitute a reason for the reversal of the Greek position, of Greek policy, that is focused on the essence of the issue."

Skopje has renamed the airport to "Alexander the Great", provoking a Greek reaction.

Burns: Skopje must be sensitive to Greek concerns (http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=5929185&maindocimg=5927366&service=102)

Karamanlis' Answer

05 Feb 2008 20:46:00 (Last updated: 05 Feb 2008 23:36:09)
By Nasos Bratsos
Sources: ΝΕΤ, ΑNA

Skopje does not seem willing to find a resolution to the name issue. Sending a letter-challenge to the President of Republic Mr. Carolos Papoulias, Skopje asks from Mr. Papoulias to support its demand to enter NATO. The same letter was also sent to the leaders of all Greek political parties-members of the EU ally. Skopje pursues to secure allies at the sight of NATO Summit Meeting taking place in April, in Bucharest. The leadership of the neighboring country has started a race to secure the support of NATO members as there is intense concern over Skopje’s entrance in the EU . Mr. Karamanlis answered to Skopje from Ljubljana, where he will hold talks with Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa. The Greek Prime Minister stressed that Greece’s stance is clear and familiar; a mutual solution in the framework of EU decisions without winning and defeated countries. Greece has made steps and the neighbouring country should do the same so as to come out from isolation, Mr. Karamalis added. U.S. ambassador to Greece Daniel Speckhard called on Skopje to indirectly contribute to the finding of a resolution mutually accepted by both countries.

It seems that the Slavoskopians suddenly realised that they shall not receive an invitation for NATO and the have started runing.
But no compound name, no EU and NATO.

US envoy at Vergina

New US ambassador to Greece, Daniel Speckhard, visited the Vergina archaeological site on Friday, where he was given a tour of the tombs of the ancient Macedonian kings and the Vergina Museum.

"These finds bear witness to a glorious and rich history," the envoy told reporters, adding that they had carried him back thousands of years into the past.

Speckhard said he intended to visit all regions of Greece and to strengthen Greek-American relations of friendship.

After the Vergina site, located west of the port city of Thessaloniki in the central part of the Macedonia province, the US ambassador visited the Byzantine Museum in Thessaloniki.

Caption: US ambassador to Greece Daniel Speckhard views an artifact during his tour of the Vergina Museum and the Royal Macedonian Tombs on Friday, 8 Feb. 2008. ANA-MPA/TASSOS ASSIKIDIS

http://img119.imageshack.us/img119/194/65727864du0.jpg

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6129489&maindocimg=6128820&service=100

Maybe we should invite the ROM Prez to see it for themselves- I am sure they have never even heard of Vergina...... They probably call it Verginski and mis inform the rest of the Bulgars, I mean educate

Maybe we should invite the ROM Prez to see it for themselves- I am sure they have never even heard of Vergina...... They probably call it Verginski and mis inform the rest of the Bulgars, I mean educate

They have invented the name Kutlesh for Vergina. Also I'm sure you meant FYROM.;)

Tsakmaki!, yes, varethika na kano type to alphabet....:p

PM: FYROM name must have geographic qualifier (http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6243686&maindocimg=4896586&service=6)

From the ANA-MPA (Athens News Agency-Macedonian Press Agency):

FM on FYROM issue

Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis on Tuesday briefed the Ιnner Cabinet on the course of negotiations over the thorny FYROM "name issue".

Responding to a question after the meeting on whether the name "New Macedonia" is up for consideration, Bakoyannis said negotiations are underway and that Greece has a clear-cut position.

"Negotiating efforts will most likely intensify in the remaining 15 days before the NATO Summit in Bucharest," she added, pointing out that Athens' positions are known inside the country, but more importantly, outside the country as well.


http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6255774&maindocimg=6165565&service=102

Deliberations on FYROM Name Issue

18 Mar 2008 10:31:00 (Last updated: 18 Mar 2008 22:40:05)

http://www.ert.gr/site/news/photos/img70x70/2005/9/MATTHEW_NIMITS.jpg

Following his Monday meeting with negotiators Vasilakis and Dimitrov in Vienna, Special UN envoy Matthew Nimetz stated that talks between Athens and Skopje may resume in New York next week. As per a UN announcement, Nimetz has asked from both parties to present their positions, adding that if there is any chance of progress to take place they will meet anew next week. Nimetz appeared optimistic, stressing however that a lot remains to be settled.

"The talks are underway, Greece has entered these talks bearing a crystal clear position. This drive will probably be intensified in the fortnight left until the Bucharest meeting. The Greek positions are known within the nation and beyond," argued Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, following the Inner Cabinet meeting.

In reply to a question on the name issue, Foreign Ministry spokesman Giorgos Koumoutsakos stated that the position of Athens, presented by the prime minister at the Summit Meeting in Brussels is crystal clear. He added that Greece would not comment on any publications as it respects the ongoing process.

Asked whether Athens is willing to come to terms with one of the three names proposed by Matthew Nimetz, Government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos claimed that staying true to the negotiation rules would lead to the best possible result.






"Greek Positions Well Known"

Foreign Affairs Minister Mrs. Bakoyiannis expressed that Greece’s position on Skopje is clear. "Negotiations continue, Greece has a clear stance which will keep in the negotiations. Most probably efforts will be intensified within the 15 days which remain until Bucharest. Greek positions are known outside the country but they are mostly known inside the country", Foreign Affairs Minister said.

At the same time Skopje president Mr. Branko Crvenkovski speaking from Slovenia expressed the hope that a solution will be found until NATO Summit Meeting in Bucharest in April.

"Two weeks remain until NATO Summit Meeting which is a short period and I honestly believe that the name issue will have been solved until then", he said during a press conference

Mr. Crvenkovski stressed that FYROM works on the direction of a reasonable compromise, adding that a name that will not hurt the national identity of the citizens of this country will be accepted.

He also stressed that Skopje will be ready to receive a dictation from Athens on the name issue and accused Greece of using the fact that it is member of NATO in order to impose a solution.

Meantime, Mathew Nimetz sent an invitation to the negotiators of the two countries after the meeting they had yesterday in Vienna to go back to the stances they adopted in New York.

The Greek negotiator Adamantios Vassilakis repeated to Mathew Nimetz Athens’ position which is the finding of a compound name being geographically oriented. UN negotiator noted that he is optimistic and stressed that there are many issues which have to be resolved.

As announced by private news reports, Mathew Nimetz submitted an oral suggestion for 3 alternative names: Democracy of Upper Macedonia, New Democracy of Macedonia or Democracy of New Macedonia and Democracy of Macedonia.

Sources of Foreign Affairs Ministry stress that it is a positive sign the fact that negotiations will continue and stressed that Skpje has a long way to go.






FYROM Rejects Nimetz Proposals

FYROM Foreign Affairs Minister Antonio Milososki in a journalists’ briefing said that the government rejects the 3 alternative names that UN special envoy Mathew Nimetz suggested yesterday in Vienna. As Mr. Milososki announced yesterday to journalists" none of the suggestions UN special envoy Mathew Nimetz presented in Vienna for the resolution of the name issue constitutes a rational basis for the finding of a solution as each of these proposals has been rejected by one or the other side during the last 15 years". Mr. Milososki also said that FYROM Prime Minister Mr. Gruevski will have regular talks with Skopje president Mr. Branko Crvenkovski when he returns from Slovenia. According to Skopje TV stations, the name which could be agreed would be for all national uses except of Skopje’s internal affairs in which a constitutional name must be preserved. As per Mr. Nimetz suggestions, TV stations commended that they do not respond to Skopje's pursuits and that they mostly approach Athens’ positions.





http://news.ert.gr/en/c/3/31612.asp

From ekathimerini:

Name talks to pick up, FM says

19/3

Foreign Minister Dora Bako-yannis said yesterday that talks to resolve the Macedonia name dispute would “intensify” ahead of NATO’s April 2-4 summit. “We will likely see an intensification of efforts over the next 15 days,” Bakoyannis said after briefing the Inner Cabinet.

Sources said diplomats from Greece and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) will continue United Nations-mediated talks next Monday in New York.

According to media reports in Skopje, the composite names being promoted by UN mediator Matthew Nimetz favor Greece. Foreign Ministry sources in Athens did not comment on this but said pressure had been shifted onto FYROM.

Official comments from Skopje yesterday were varied. FYROM’s President Branko Crvenkovski appeared to show good will. “I honestly hope this problem will be overcome (before the summit),” he said. But Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski was less upbeat. He said FYROM was “under pressure” by Greece and it faced “constant blackmail,” adding that it has “a red line it will not cross.”

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100012_19/03/2008_94583

Posted: March 20, 2008 at 10:29 AM EST (15:29 PM GMT)


Washington (ANA-MPA/T. Ellis) -- US president George Bush was concerned over the FYROM name issue, but believes that it can and must te solved, White House press secretary Dana Perino said during a regular press briefing, in reply to questions.

"Sure," Perino said, when asked whether Bush was concerned over the unresolved name issue between Greece and FYROM, adding that the US president "is hoping that they will come to an agreement before we get to the NATO summit (in Bucharest at the beginning of April), because he thinks that this is an issue that is solvable, and something that they should get done before we head out there (Bucharest) at the end of the month".

Asked whether Bush intended to take any last-minute initiative, Perino said that "the secretary of state, Condoleezza Rice, has been talking with them", adding that she was sure that the upcoming NATO summit would also be discussed at Rice's imminent meeting with the US president to brief him on her Russia trip.

An editorial comment from Kathimerini:

Greece sinks to bottom of league

22/3

The talks held yesterday in Brussels between Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis and her Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) counterpart Antonio Milososki, attended by US Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried, have highlighted the difficulties currently faced by the three countries.

Greece, after failing to persuade its small neighbor to change its name in the previous round of UN-mediated talks, now accepts the direct involvement of Washington, which, however, had recognized the country by the name «Republic of Macedonia» back in 2005, thus depriving its ally Greece of important diplomatic support.

Now that the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's entry to NATO hangs in the balance, with the possibility of a veto from Greece, the United States has again stepped in and offered its services, mostly in aid of FYROM, and Greece is being dragged into the process as if it were at the bottom of the «league table» of Balkan countries.


Also this news article from Kathimerini today:



FYROM name dialogue ‘useful’

22/3

Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis and her counterpart from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) Antonio Milososki yesterday issued a joint statement from Brussels expressing their «commitment» to a solution to the Macedonia name dispute.

After the talks, which were attended by US Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried, Bakoyannis remarked that «various thoughts and ideas were discussed.»

She said that she and Milososki would relay these ideas to their respective governments and that the two countries' representatives would resume United Nations-mediated negotiations in New York next Tuesday. Bakoyannis did not reveal any details about yesterday's talks but reiterated Greece's insistence on a new name for FYROM that clearly distinguishes the country from the northern Greek region of the same name. «This is fair and important for stability in the region,» she said. Bakoyannis stressed that the US intervention did not undermine the role of UN mediator Matthew Nimetz but rather supported it.

After the talks, a spokesperson for the US mission to NATO in Brussels said the exchange had taken place in «a good atmosphere.»

Milososki, on his part, said that FYROM wants to stay «constructively involved» in resolving the name dispute. But he stressed that Skopje's ultimate aim is to join NATO, a move that Athens has threatened to veto unless the name dispute is resolved. Sources said that Milososki expressed Skopje's desire to see more alternative names on the table, as he believes the current suggestions can be improved on.

A ministry spokesman in Athens, Giorgos Koumoutsakos, described yesterday's talks as «a useful discussion and a sincere exchange of views.»



http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100001_22/03/2008_94673

From ANA-MPA

'Name issue' talks resume Tues.

03/22/2008

Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis met in New York City on Friday with her counterpart from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Antonio Milososki, part of ongoing negotiations between Athens and Skopje to finally resolve the nagging "name issue" separating the two Balkan neighbours.

"It (meeting) was a useful and sincere exchange of views; several thoughts and ideas were tabled, we will study these and relevant directions will be given to our negotiators, who will meet (with diplomats representing the FYROM side) in New York City next Tuesday," Bakoyannis said.

The Greek FM again reiterated that the Greek side attended Friday's meeting -- which was hosted by a top US diplomat -- with a sincere volition to find a mutually acceptable solution, "with clear-cut positions, strong arguments and a determined stance."

In response to press questions, Bakoyannis said no agreement or memorandum was signed during Friday's meeting.

Asked about Athens' positions over a possible solution, Bakoyannis noted that "our position is quite clear ... we desire a name that will describe a difference between the wider geographical region of Macedonia and the area covered today by the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM). I believe that this is fair and unambiguous, as well as significant for the region's stability."

Finally, she said that the ongoing negotiating process, under UN mediator Matthew Nimetz, is neither being replaced. "Meetings taking place with the initiative of the United States are supportive vis-a-vis this process."


http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6266431&maindocimg=5816795&service=10

From ERT:


Crucial Meeting - Aiming at a Solution

21 Mar 2008

http://www.ert.gr/site/news/photos/img70x70/2006/2/Bakogianni_Dora.jpg

The meeting between Greek FM Dora Bakoyannis and her FYROM counterpart Antonio Milososki in Brussels confirmed the two sides’ commitment to find a solution to the name dispute. "It was a useful and honest exchange of views. Several ideas and opinions were put on the table. We will study them, and relevant guidelines will be given to our negotiators who will meet on 25 March in New York," said Dora Bakoyannis, while elaborating on the nature of the two-hour meeting she had with the FYROM Foreign Minister. Bakoyannis also stressed, "Greece entered this meeting, which was hosted in the USA, offering its honest will towards a mutually acceptable solution, with crystal clear positions, solid arguments and a decisive stance." She further added that no agreement or memorandum was signed during the meeting.






Drilled whether she believes that a deal could be struck in the coming week, she said: "I do not know whether an agreement will be brokered in New York or not. What I know is that Greece has the will to really work for a constructive agreement."

Asked what are Greece’s "red lines", Bakoyannis argued, "Our [Greece’s] stance is crystal clear: we are after a name that would signal the difference between the geographical area of Macedonia and the area now belonging to FYROM. I believe that this is fair, crystal clear and important for stability in the region."

With regard to whether she detected "more will" for the solution of the FYROM name dispute, the Greek FM stated, "Both countries have realized that this is a major issue of outstanding significance to our people, and I believe that there is will."

Asked whether the UN-sponsored drive to have the problem settled is going to be replaced, she stressed: "I want yet again to make it clear that the drive under Nimetz will not be replaced. The meetings carried out upon the USA’s initiative are meetings that mean to support the achievement of agreement."

Greek Foreign Ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos commented: "The two Ministers of Foreign Affairs met prior to the forthcoming NATO Summit in Bucharest to promote the efforts in progress, aiming to lead the UN-sponsored drive to a mutually acceptable solution. The USA hosted today’s meeting with a view to helping the negotiations under Matthew Nimetz. It was a useful meeting and an honest exchange of views. The two ministers underlined the two governments’ commitment to settle the problem. Both sides are looking forward to the next meeting with Matthew Nimetz scheduled for 25 March in New York."

The White House said that President George W. Bush is concerned over the name dispute, however, he believes that it can and must be settled.



http://news.ert.gr/en/c/3/31643.asp

From ANA-MPA:

PM briefed by FM on FYROM name issue developments

03/22/2008

Prime minister Costas Karamanlis conferred on Saturday with foreign minister Dora Bakoyannis on the latest developments in the FYROM name issue, following the latter's recent contacts and her meeting in Brussels with FYROM foreign minister Antonio Milososki on Friday.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Bakoyannis said she briefed the premier on the content of the contacts she had, adding that the negotiations for a name solution were continuing, and that there was nothing new on the issue.

"As you know, there will be a meeting of the negotiators in New York, where a discussion will take place in the framework of the United Nations and on the basis of the relevant UN resolutions," Bakoyannis said.

Asked if she was optimistic that a solution could prospectively be reached before the critical NATO Summit in Bucharest (on April 1), Bakoyannis replied: "I can't know that. I am neither optimistic nor pessimistic. But if no agreed solution arises that has the stamp of the UN Security Council, then Greece's position is well known".

Bakoyannis met with her FYROM counterpart Antonio Milososki in Brussels on Friday, in the framework of the ongoing UN-brokered effort for finding a mutually acceptable solution to the FYROM name issue as per the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, according to a foreign ministry announcement.

The meeting which was hosted by the US, with assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian Affairs Daniel Fried in attendance, was held with the aim of advancing the ongoing efforts under the mediation of the UN secretary general's personal envoy on the name issue, Matthew Nimetz, with the ultimate goal of the UN process leading to a mutually acceptable outcome, according to foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos.




http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6268369&maindocimg=6264913&service=6


From ERT:

Dora Bakoyannis at Maximos Mansion

Briefing on the Name Row

22 Mar 2008 10:54:00 (Last updated: 22 Mar 2008 20:57:05)


The latest developments in the FYROM name dispute topped the meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis and Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis at Maximos Mansion, the former’s residence, on Saturday morning. After her talks with her FYROM counterpart Antonio Milososki in Brussels before US Undersecretary of State Daniel Freid, Bakoyannis stressed that the two sides committed themselves to settling the problem, noting that the neighbouring country appeared willing to have the dispute solved. She also claimed that the meeting meant to support the negotiations held under UN envoy Matthew Nimetz, who will be meeting with the negotiators of the two sides in New York on coming Tuesday.

In parallel, FYROM president Mr. Branko Crvenkovski talking to a conference in Ohrid said that he is in favour of a rational compromise which will defend the national identity and will also give the chance for NATO entrance and will help to overcome any further procedures for UN entrance. In the conference of the "New Socialist Party" which participates in the governmental coalition, President Tito Petkovski said that he is in favour of a compromise in the name issue after the acceptance of the change of the constitutional name for external use with the condition that it will be equal for NATO and UN entrance. The Prime Minister Mr. Nikola Gruevski argued this position.

Bakoyannis' Statements

Exiting the Prime Minister’s residence, Dora Bakoyannis said they touched on the content of the talks on the FYROM name row and briefed the Prime Minister on the outcome of her meetings in Brussels.

Replying to relevant questions, the Greek Foreign Minister argued she is neither optimistic nor pessimistic on the course of the negotiations.

She reiterated, though, that unless a solution sealed by the Security Council is found, FYROM will not be invited to gain a NATO membership. Bakoyannis also added that a new meeting between the two sides’ negotiators has been scheduled in New York for coming Tuesday.

Earlier on Saturday morning, Bakoyannis had made it clear that there has been no proposal on a name on the table.


http://news.ert.gr/en/c/3/31652.asp

Crucial Week
23 Mar 2008 19:02:00 (Last updated: 23 Mar 2008 20:16:33)

http://www.ert.gr/site/news/photos/img70x70/2008/3/vasilakis_nimits_dimitrof.jpg
Nimetz, Vasilakis and Dimitrov

Sources: ΝΕΤ, ΝΕΤ 105.8

The dawning of the new week will witness developments and intense deliberations with a view to achieving a mutually acceptable solution to a long-standing dispute over FYROM’s name ahead of the NATO Summit. Athens is entering the new round of talks under Matthew Nimetz in New York on Tuesday, while Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis is expected to hold a new meeting with her FYROM counterpart on the sidelines of the informal meeting of the EU foreign ministers in Slovenia. In the meantime, FYROM President Branko Crvenkovski’s statement, whereby he favoured a "rational compromise," has caused sensation.


The neighbouring country seems to have started differentiating its positions. "I was given precise guidelines," commented FYROM negotiator Nikola Dimitrov, after his meeting with the President, the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister. Earlier President Branko Crvenkovski had referred for the first time ever to the need for a "rational compromise" on the name issue.

Tito Petkovski, President of the Social Democratic Union that takes part in the government coalition, argued that the country should compromise and consider changing its constitutional name, since this is the price for NATO and EU memberships. Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski, however, disagreed.

In the meantime, Greece has shifted its attention to the meeting scheduled for Tuesday. Entering the New York talks with crystal clear arguments and firm positions, Athens believes that FYROM should do its share.

Dora Bakoyannis yet again reiterated Greece’s stance, whereby no breakthrough to the dispute amounts to no invitation to NATO accession.

The New York talks will take place four days after the meeting held between the two sides’ Foreign Ministers in Brussels, where the two governments committed to solving the row.


http://news.ert.gr/en/c/3/31681.asp

Fear and unknown strength


By Nikos Konstandaras

Looking at how Greece has been caught up in interminable and fruitless negotiations on a name for the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), one can only wonder how our country got trapped into a situation which has cost it great diplomatic and political capital without any gains so far. We don’t know where the situation will lead, but it is interesting to look at the issue as a compilation of the problems which – 178 years after its establishment – plague the modern Greek state.

Foreign policy is affected excessively by domestic squabbles, personal ambitions and petty political games. This often leads opposition parties to place unrealistic demands on foreign policy, because it is the easiest way for them to look patriotic while the government can be painted “traitorous” or incompetent. The government then pursues the unattainable while doing its best not to agree to any solution that could be used against it. Then, as a nation with a long but often selective and simplistic historical memory, we are in continuous danger of being trapped between the myths of the past and fears of the future, thereby losing the chance to clearly understand the present.

This brings us to another deadly sin of our foreign policy (which applies in domestic issues as well): the amateurish way in which our officials improvise in times of crisis. The Ocalan affair, in which senior Greek politicians and secret agents tried to smuggle the Kurdish rebel leader to a secret exile as US and Turkish agents closed in, is a case study of what happens when everyone tries to do everything, without relying on the proper agencies and institutions. It was a disaster.

In complicated diplomatic issues, such as the consequences of a country outside Greece using the name “Macedonia,” Athens did not do enough to make other countries understand its position.

In the throes of self-righteous anger and self-congratulation for its unyielding position, Greece appeared to be so sure everyone else would agree with it that it sent out a message that – to many – made it look as if it wanted to swallow its northern neighbor. So, closed in our little world, we ignore the thoughts of other countries and current developments; instead of exploiting the international dynamics that would bring us closer to our targets, we keep fighting an uphill battle on every front. In this light, it is very interesting to look at the current triangular relationship of Greeks, Albanians and Slav-Macedonians: Greek public opinion has been programmed to fear “Albanian irredentism” and then, suddenly, the Albanians of FYROM appear as another point of pressure on the government in Skopje with their demand for a compromise with Athens over the name issue so that the country can join NATO without problem. This, on the surface, strengthens Greece’s hand. But would Athens really want to ally itself with the Albanians against the Slav-Macedonians to the extent that this shakes the stability of our neighboring country, with all that this would entail?

This happens when we do not have clear objectives, when we do not estimate carefully the interests and dynamics of others – nor what is attainable. We do not know how to succeed, but what’s even worse is that we don’t know when we have achieved the greatest possible gain. In this way, we run the risk of losing what we had in our hands. We allow problems to drag on endlessly, in the hope that we will achieve something better later, rather than take responsibility for agreeing to a solution that may not be 100 percent satisfactory but is the best that we could get.

As long as problems go unsolved we feel that no one understands us and no one supports us. So we often succumb to complaining instead of going after what we want with confidence in our position and faith in our own abilities. Very often, in our fear that others will take advantage of us, we tend to forget the strength we have as a country and as a nation. When we open up, when we share the good things that we enjoy, when we help others, we gain a lot more. This was evident after the terrible earthquake in Turkey in 1999 and in the horrific explosions which rocked Albania just over a week ago. The Greeks were the first to arrive in Albania with medical assistance, winning the gratitude of our neighbors and at the same time giving us a small taste of optimism and pride even as we wallowed in garbage during the plague of strikes.

At such moments, when we act without complexes, when we put aside our insecurity, we feel the strength of Greece, the “soft power” of principles, of reconciliation, of democracy. As long as we understand that, we have this strength.

www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_columns_100026_24/03/2008_94710

From Kathimerini:

Name talks to continue tomorrow

There was a climate of cautious optimism in Athens and Skopje over the weekend ahead of fresh negotiations on the Macedonia name dispute in New York tomorrow.

In Athens, diplomats told Kathimerini that a compromise could be reached ahead of NATO’s summit on April 2-4, where the possible accession of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) is to be discussed. Officially Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis was more reserved, saying, after a meeting with Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, that she “felt neither optimistic nor pessimistic.”

Bakoyannis is to meet her FYROM counterpart Antonio Milososki on the sidelines of a European Union summit in Slovenia on Friday to discuss any headway made in New York by the two country’s representatives in United Nations-mediated talks.

On Saturday, FYROM’s president, Branko Crvenkovski, stressed the need for a “logical compromise” to the name dispute. FYROM’s envoy Nikola Dimitrov told reporters he had been given “precise instructions” but did not elaborate.

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100020_24/03/2008_94713

From ERT:

Fresh Negotiations on FYROM

24 Mar 2008 14:53:00 (Last updated: 24 Mar 2008 21:57:21)

http://www.ert.gr/site/news/photos/img70x70/2007/11/Vasilakis_Skopia_OHE.jpg

The UN-sponsored talks on FYROM (Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia) name issue, scheduled to take place in New York on Tuesday have been described especially crucial. Athens expects FYROM to make specific steps at the negotiating table, as time is running out. FYROM President’s statement that his country should discuss an honest compromise has caused sensation. For the first time Mr Branko Crvenkovski has stated that his country should compromise on the name issue, so that his country’s course to NATO is not obstructed. In parallel, the President of the New Social-Democrat Party, which is participating in the coalition government, favours a compromising solution. However, Prime Minister Nikola Gruevsky disagrees, insisting on his intransigence.






Gruevsky’s office issued late on Monday an announcement reading, "The Prime Minister will not allow irresponsible politicians to harm the Republic of Macedonia with statements on its constitutional name." The announcement also read, "No one in the country, apart from its citizens, can decide on such an issue like the constitutional name."

"Branko Crvenkovski’s statement is not only a double game but also a major and irreversible damage to the country in these historic moments," continued the announcement.

"Prime Minister Mr Gruevsky will do anything in his power until the completion of the Bucharest Summit to abstain from public discussion, which can harm the country," concluded the announcement.

Crvenkovski had stressed the need for a "rational compromise," provided that it "would not threaten FYROM’s national identity."



http://news.ert.gr/en/c/3/31697.asp

From ANA-MPA:

FM on FYROM issue

25/3

Greece points to intransigent comments by FYROM PM amid NYC meeting



Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis on Monday evening pointed to what she called wholly unproductive comments hours earlier by the prime minister of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Nikola Gruevski, on the very day of a crucial UN-mediated meeting between Greek and FYROM negotiators in New York City.

"Mr. Gruevski’s statements, only hours before the start of this very crucial meeting under the United Nations’ auspices, do not help the overall effort by predicting a negative result,? Bakoyannis said from Athens, while adding: ?We believe in this process and do not subscribe to this reasoning.?

?The period until Bucharest (the upcoming NATO summit) is only marginally adequate for finding a consensual, practical and functional solution. Greece, with its well-known positions, moderation and sincerity, has proposed, for some time now, a mutually acceptable solution to this 17-year impasse. Our consistent position will be recorded during today’s (Monday) meeting in New York,? she added.

Finally, the Greek foreign minister emphasised, in a pointed message to the government in Skopje, that ?it is clear that relations between allies, relations of solidarity and stability, are not built on (top) of serious outstanding problems.?

Gruevski was earlier quoted in Skopje as more-or-less expressing his utter pessimism over the outcome of ongoing talks.

"I am not so optimistic, as much as I am a realist regarding the pending name issue. The situation is such that Greece has the intent of placing a veto in case we do not accept its blackmail. We cannot accept blackmail, in the manner that Athens wants. It is almost certain that in case Greece exercises a veto over the accession of 'Macedonia' to NATO, then talks with Greece over the name issue will find themselves in a deep crisis, and could possibly be suspended," the landlocked country's premier said on Monday afternoon following a meeting with his visiting Estonian counterpart Andrus Ansip.

"Greece's (potential) veto will cause great disappointment amongst the citizens of 'Macedonia', with long-term negative repercussions for the two countries' relations. In such a case, our country will continue with reforms and continue implementing measures to improve citizens' lives. Maybe it (FYROM) will wait for another opportunity, in the coming years or even decades for its accession to NATO, but this period will pass. However, Greece will cause damage not only to us but to the entire region and NATO, as well as to itself," said Gruevski, who used the shortened version of the country's constitutional name throughout.

In repeating a quip mostly aired by the one-time Yugoslav republic's political hardliners, Gruevski said NATO and EU member Greece's potential veto would come ?against the alliance itself?.

Greece has been a member of NATO since 1952.

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6276113&maindocimg=6072168&service=10


Again from ANA-MPA:

Nimetz cites new proposal

26/3

A United Nations-mediated meeting between the negotiators of Greece and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) concluded here early Monday afternoon, with UN mediator Matthew Nimetz noting afterwards that he gave both sides a new and "specific proposal" revolving around a composite name with a geographical dimension.

He also referred to a fair compromise, while noting that he is not setting any deadlines.

Nimetz said the two negotiators, Greece's Adamantios Vassilakis and FYROM's Nikola Dimitrov, will return to their respective countries for consultations. The US diplomat added he will be available at any moment to continue the process and that he is not turning in his mandate to mediate in the dispute.

Moreover, he said that differences remain between the two neighbours, although stressing that both nations recognise that a solution to the long-standing problem will reinforce security in the region.

Finally, Nimetz said issues dealing with the implementation of a possible agreement were discussed, when asked about "guarantees".

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6276208&maindocimg=6214786&service=102

From ANA-MPA:

FM on FYROM issue

25/3

Greece points to intransigent comments by FYROM PM amid NYC meeting



Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis on Monday evening pointed to what she called wholly unproductive comments hours earlier by the prime minister of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Nikola Gruevski, on the very day of a crucial UN-mediated meeting between Greek and FYROM negotiators in New York City.

"Mr. Gruevski’s statements, only hours before the start of this very crucial meeting under the United Nations’ auspices, do not help the overall effort by predicting a negative result,? Bakoyannis said from Athens, while adding: ?We believe in this process and do not subscribe to this reasoning.?

?The period until Bucharest (the upcoming NATO summit) is only marginally adequate for finding a consensual, practical and functional solution. Greece, with its well-known positions, moderation and sincerity, has proposed, for some time now, a mutually acceptable solution to this 17-year impasse. Our consistent position will be recorded during today’s (Monday) meeting in New York,? she added.

Finally, the Greek foreign minister emphasised, in a pointed message to the government in Skopje, that ?it is clear that relations between allies, relations of solidarity and stability, are not built on (top) of serious outstanding problems.?

Gruevski was earlier quoted in Skopje as more-or-less expressing his utter pessimism over the outcome of ongoing talks.

"I am not so optimistic, as much as I am a realist regarding the pending name issue. The situation is such that Greece has the intent of placing a veto in case we do not accept its blackmail. We cannot accept blackmail, in the manner that Athens wants. It is almost certain that in case Greece exercises a veto over the accession of 'Macedonia' to NATO, then talks with Greece over the name issue will find themselves in a deep crisis, and could possibly be suspended," the landlocked country's premier said on Monday afternoon following a meeting with his visiting Estonian counterpart Andrus Ansip.

"Greece's (potential) veto will cause great disappointment amongst the citizens of 'Macedonia', with long-term negative repercussions for the two countries' relations. In such a case, our country will continue with reforms and continue implementing measures to improve citizens' lives. Maybe it (FYROM) will wait for another opportunity, in the coming years or even decades for its accession to NATO, but this period will pass. However, Greece will cause damage not only to us but to the entire region and NATO, as well as to itself," said Gruevski, who used the shortened version of the country's constitutional name throughout.

In repeating a quip mostly aired by the one-time Yugoslav republic's political hardliners, Gruevski said NATO and EU member Greece's potential veto would come ?against the alliance itself?.

Greece has been a member of NATO since 1952.

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6276113&maindocimg=6072168&service=10


Again from ANA-MPA:

Nimetz cites new proposal

26/3

A United Nations-mediated meeting between the negotiators of Greece and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) concluded here early Monday afternoon, with UN mediator Matthew Nimetz noting afterwards that he gave both sides a new and "specific proposal" revolving around a composite name with a geographical dimension.

He also referred to a fair compromise, while noting that he is not setting any deadlines.

Nimetz said the two negotiators, Greece's Adamantios Vassilakis and FYROM's Nikola Dimitrov, will return to their respective countries for consultations. The US diplomat added he will be available at any moment to continue the process and that he is not turning in his mandate to mediate in the dispute.

Moreover, he said that differences remain between the two neighbours, although stressing that both nations recognise that a solution to the long-standing problem will reinforce security in the region.

Finally, Nimetz said issues dealing with the implementation of a possible agreement were discussed, when asked about "guarantees".

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6276208&maindocimg=6214786&service=102




From ERT on the new proposal:

Nimetz Unveils New Proposal

25 Mar 2008 20:55:00 (Last updated: 26 Mar 2008 00:53:06)

By Anna Kourti


UN envoy Matthew Nimetz submitted a new proposal including a composite name with a geographical dimension, following his two-hour meeting with negotiators Adamantios Vassilakis of Greece and Nikola Dimitrov of FYROM held at the UN headquarters in New York. Well-documented sources said the proposal speaks of one and only international name for FYROM. Exiting the meeting, Nimetz claimed that his proposal is “a fair compromise,” also noting that he is not setting any deadlines. Furthermore, the UN envoy touched on the drives mounted over the last 14 years with a view to reaching a breakthrough, admitting, however, that disputes remain between the two sides and that both countries are well aware of the fact that a solution to the long-standing problem will boost security in the region. Nimetz then went on to stress that he is willing to go on with the process. Asked whether guarantees issues were brought up, Nimetz underlined that they are included in the implementation of a possible agreement. In the meantime, the time given to the two sides to reach an agreement is running out, as the NATO Summit in Bucharest is only a week away.

In her statements, the Greek Foreign Minister noted that Nikola Gruevski’s statements just a few hours prior to the crucial meeting contributed little to the campaign. “We [Greece] will not follow this strategy. Greece has long before suggested a breakthrough to the 17-year-long deadlock, a solution on the basis of a composite name. This position will be recorded today, as well,” stressed Dora Bakoyannis, also adding that ally relations cannot be built upon pending issues.

On his part, FYROM Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski underlined that he would not come to terms with any change to his country’s constitutional name, while he lashed out at the country’s President who spoke of a rational compromise on the name issue.

At the same time, in his interview with Associated Press, the FYROM Foreign Minister threatened to halt the talks if Greece vetoed FYROM’s NATO bid.


http://news.ert.gr/en/c/3/31714.asp

From ANA-MPA:

PM Karamanlis briefed on new Nimetz proposal

26/3

Prime minister Costas Karamanlis was briefed by Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis on Wednesday on UN special mediator Matthew Nimetz's new proposal on the FYROM name issue unveiled to the Greek and FYROM negotiators during talks in New York the previous day.

Bakoyannis, who also briefed the Inner Cabinet on the proposal, said afterwards that the new proposal "is far from the goals sought by Greece".

She added that the negotiation would continue, and announced that in the next 48 hours she would brief President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias and the leaders of the political parties on the new development.

Asked by reporters whether the prospect of Greece vetoing FYROM membership in NATO continued to stand, Bakoyannis replied: "Greece's position is clear, and I don't need to repeat it. However, I will say it again: If there is no mutually acceptable solution on the name, Greece cannot constent to allied relations with Skopje".

Asked whether Tuesday's proposal had been Nimetz's final proposal, Bakoyannis replied that "there are no final proposals in negotiations".

Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis will chair a meeting of his ruling New Democracy (ND) party's Central Committee on Thursday morning.

The agenda for the meeting is "the course of the changes and reforms in the new four-year term" in government, according to an ND announcement

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6277325&maindocimg=1690646&service=6


From Kathimerini:

Skopje ups the tension

FYROM premier accuses Greece of ‘blackmail’ before UN talks

Greece and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) were last night involved in yet another effort to solve their name dispute but only after the neighboring country’s prime minister had accused Athens of trying to “blackmail” Skopje over the issue.

The comment by Nikola Gruevski came only hours before representatives from both sides were due to meet with the United Nations mediator Matthew Nimetz in New York for further discussions aimed at finding some compromise.

Nimetz was not due to make any public comments about the meetings until about midnight, Greek time, last night.

However, the statement by Gruevski earlier in the day appeared to heighten tension between the two sides ahead of yesterday’s talks.

The FYROM prime minister accused Greece of trying to get the result it wants from the negotiations by threatening to block Skopje’s bid to join NATO at a summit that begins in Bucharest on April 2.

“The situation now is that Greece intends to use its veto if we do not accept its blackmail,” said Gruevski. “We cannot accept blackmail.”

He added that FYROM could break off talks with Greece if Athens decides to use its veto.

“From what I can see now, I cannot be much of an optimist. In case of a veto from Greece, the negotiations will enter such deep crisis that perhaps they will be stopped.”

The response from Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis was immediate.

“Mr Gruevski’s comments, just a few hours before today’s crucial meeting within the UN framework, do not help the whole effort as they predict a negative outcome.

“We believe in this process and will not follow this line of thinking.”

Bakoyannis indicated that time was running out for finding a solution to the dispute before the NATO summit but that a “consensual, practical and enforceable” compromise could be reached.

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_1_26/03/2008_94760

FM to FYROM people

Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, on Friday addressed a message to the people of FYROM stressing that a solution acceptable by the two countries will allow relations of good neighbourliness.

http://www.ana.gr/anaweb/getimage?action=getthumb&docid=6267967

"I wish to send again, and from the Parliament podium, a clear message to the Skopjan people and tell them that Greece is a good, very good neighbour who desires the stability and the development of their country, because this is in the interests of both the Greek people and the Skopjan people," she said.

Bakoyannis further said that Greece really desires the finding of a solution acceptable by the two countries that will allow good neighbourliness relations that "constitute the basis for allied and partnership relations."

The foreign minister also said that "I call on the leadership of Skopje again today to respond to this invitation. What we are doing today is not extortion, but a sincere effort for us to find a solution, as soon as possible, for the stability of the entire region."

After pointing out that this issue is extremely sensitive and touches the hearts of the Greeks, she assured the House that negotiatig "is taking place with the best of conditions and that the government is determined to do its duty in full."

Lastly, Bakoyannis said that she believes that when the result of negotiations will be presented in the Greek Parliament, all "with your hand on your hearts will be able to agree and to vote for it."


http://www.ana.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6284332&maindocimg=6267967&service=10

PM raps ‘falsity’ of name proposal
Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis said yesterday that the latest United Nations proposal for a solution to the Macedonia name dispute did not satisfy Greece and stressed that Athens would veto Skopje’s bid to join NATO unless an acceptable compromise is reached.

“A solution based on falsity is not a solution,” Karamanlis told the ruling party’s central committee, referring to the latest proposal by UN mediator Matthew Nimetz for the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) to adopt the name “Republic of Macedonia (Skopje).”

Karamanlis said Athens would not accept “a solution that is a vehicle for irredentist tactics.” Nevertheless the premier said that “efforts would continue” to find a mutually acceptable solution.

Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis stressed that it was not absolutely vital for a settlement to be reached ahead of a NATO summit at the end of next week, where FYROM’S accession prospects will be discussed, despite US pressure for the issue to be resolved by then.

Bakoyannis said that Athens had informed Nimetz of its objections to the latest proposal, which the envoy has described as a “reasonable compromise... with a geographic dimension.”

FYROM’s Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski had not made any public comments in response to Nimetz’s proposal by late yesterday. But some local newspapers said that he was also unhappy with the name.

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100007_28/03/2008_94849

From Kathimerini:

Athens has few options left on name

Skopje mulling UN proposal

Athens saw its diplomatic options dwindle last night as Skopje indicated that it may accept the latest United Nations proposal for a solution to the Macedonia name dispute – which Greece has rebuffed – and Washington pushed for a settlement before a NATO summit starting next Wednesday.

The foreign minister of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Antonio Milososki, declined to confirm that his government had accepted the latest name proposed by UN mediator Matthew Nimetz, saying that Skopje’s parliament would discuss the proposal on Monday. But he indicated a willingness to accept the new name: Republic of Macedonia (Skopje). “After 15 years of talks, we think that this proposal is final in this process,” he said.

Meanwhile, sources told Kathimerini that Nimetz may make yet another proposal, more closely tailored to Greece’s preference for a name, such as Upper or New Macedonia.

Greece’s Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, who is due to meet with Milososki on the sidelines of a European Union summit in Slovenia today, did not comment publicly on the shift in Skopje’s stance. But diplomatic sources said the ministry has been riled by comments made by Milososki in an interview with US magazine Newsweek in which he criticizes Greece for neglecting the rights of its “Macedonian minority.”

Greek diplomats have also been irked by growing pressure from Washington for a swift solution to the name dispute. US President George W. Bush yesterday reiterated his support for FYROM’s NATO accession. US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said “the entry of Albania, Croatia and Macedonia into NATO would be a stabilizing factor in the Balkans,” adding that “it would be a pity if something that has to do with antiquity were to get in the way of... a very important step for Macedonia and for NATO.”

Greek diplomats say it would be preferable if name negotiations do not continue during NATO’s summit in Bucharest next week. But if a solution is not found by Tuesday, it is thought that Greek diplomats will face last-minute pressure over dinner with NATO leaders on Wednesday night.

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100014_29/03/2008_94894


From ANA-MPA:

Athens furious over Skopje insult

http://bp0.blogger.com/_OPg-Kn4CzDg/R--cTaDKbeI/AAAAAAAACFk/p3gdwDMvggQ/s400/DSC00095.JPG

Greece angrily condemns insult to nat'l symbol on Skopje billboards

Greece reacted angrily on Sunday to an unprecedented provocation in the neighbouring Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), as several outdoor billboards in the capital of Skopje depicted an adulterated Greek flag, with the blue Cross morphed into a Swastika.

"This unacceptable poster, which was circulated via a private initiative and raised on Skopje's streets, directly insults our country's national symbol and our struggle against fascism and Nazism," a foreign ministry spokesman tersely said on Sunday afternoon in response to a press question.

"This incident demonstrates the huge mistake made by those that invest in chauvinism and bigotry. It also confirms, yet again, the correctness of Greece's position, namely, that a necessary condition for the establishment of relations of solidarity and relations amongst allies is, in practice, respect of good-neighbourly relations between countries and peoples," spokesman George Koumoutsakos emphasised, speaking days before a NATO summit will consider admission for landlocked FYROM.

The spokesman also announced that Greece's diplomatic representative in the neighbouring one-time Yugoslav state has been instructed to table Athens' severe protest over the provocation to FYROM's foreign ministry as well as to demand the immediate removal of the offensive billboard.

The Swastika imagery on the Greek flag -- in place of the Cross -- was the first item covered by most television news programmes in Greece on Sunday evening, touching on a particularly sensitive nerve, given that the east Mediterranean country sustained monumental damages and loss of life during World War II during successive Italian and German invasions, followed by a triple occupation (1941-1944) by Nazi German, Italian fascist and Bulgarian troops.

According to an ANA-MPA dispatch from Skopje, the controversial billboard ads ostensibly promote a photographic exhibition in the city's cultural centre from April 3 to May 3.


http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6291328&maindocimg=6291127&service=102


From ANA-MPA again:

FM: Athens won't bow to pressure

Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis was quoted here on Sunday as reiterating that Athens will not be influenced by the short time remaining until this week's NATO summit in Bucharest in its positions regarding a mutually acceptable solution to the nagging "name issue" involving the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM).

"Pressure due to time constraints will not force us to accept proposals under the veil of ultimatums," Bakoyannis was quoted as saying in an article published by the "Ethnos" newspaper on Sunday.

"We are in the middle of negotiations, which undoubtedly have watersheds. One such defining moment in negotiations is the Bucharest summit ? Greece does not, however, waver and does not exercise its foreign policy under deadlines placed by others," she added.

The Greek FM also said that she believes UN mediator Matthew Nimetz may table a new proposal for a mutually acceptable solution, without however, ruling out the possibility of an intervention by the US president to achieve a breakthrough.

Moreover, in answer to a press question, Bakoyannis reminded that Greece is a country "that does not accept orders or follows orders by anyone".

In statements on the same issue but in a different Athens daily, Defence Minister Evangelos Meimarakis offered his view that there is enough time after the NATO summit to achieve a solution with the neighbouring, landlocked state.

"(Prime Minister) Costas Karamanlis has emphasised that phony solutions will not be accepted," Meimarakis was quoted as saying in the Sunday edition of the Athens daily "Eleftherotypia".

"No solution to the 'name issue' means no invitation, as far as Greece is concerned," Meimarakis said, echoing repeated statements by Greek leadership over the recent period.

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6291331&maindocimg=6281312&service=96

From Kathimerini:

US ups pressure before NATO summit

The government yesterday insisted that it would not be pushed into accepting a compromise on the Macedonia name dispute before Wednesday's NATO summit, as Western pressure for an immediate solution intensified.

«No solution means no invitation (for Skopje to join NATO),» Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis told Parliament on Saturday, stressing «only a mutually acceptable solution... can form the basis for constructive relations within the alliance.»

Meanwhile US officials cranked up the pressure on Athens to agree to a settlement so that the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) can join NATO. US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice telephoned Greece's Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis on Friday night to stress Washington's resolve. And, sources told Kathimerini, US President George W. Bush is considering inviting Karamanlis and FYROM's Premier Nikola Gruevski for talks on the matter before the NATO summit gets under way.

Bakoyannis has stuck to her guns, dismissing Rice's description of the name spat as «something that has to do with antiquity» and stressing, in an interview published in yesterday's Ethnos, that «we are not a country that takes orders from anyone.» Bakoyannis added that «the pressure of time will not lead us to accept proposals in the form of an ultimatum.»

The Greek FM said she believed United Nations mediator Matthew Nimetz might make a fresh proposal before Wednesday but said, «It will be difficult to reach a solution before the summit.»

But her FYROM counterpart Antonio Milososki said he thought a deal could be struck by then. «We are running out of time but I think the possibility (of an agreement) still exists,» he told reporters on the sidelines of a European Union summit in Slovenia on Saturday. He said FYROM's parliament will today discuss Nimetz's latest proposal for a solution to the name dispute - Republic of Macedonia (Skopje) - which is said to have appealed to FYROM.

Milososki and Bakoyannis had been due to hold talks in Slovenia at the weekend but the Greek side canceled the meeting after US pressure intensified.

Most European foreign ministers at the Slovenia summit avoided taking a stance on the FYROM accession issue. But Germany's Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier warned of the regional repercussions of blocking Skopje's bid to join NATO. «This summit does not have the right to fail and must not replace more stability for less stability,» he said.

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100002_31/03/2008_94931


From ANA-MPA:

Demarche over flag insult

Greece's ambassador to the FYROM, as expected formally lodged a demarche with the government here on Sunday evening in protest of several billboard ads appearing on Skopje's streets that insulted the Greek national symbol

Amb. Alexandra Papadopoulou also demanded that the ads be immediately removed, following instructions by the Greek foreign ministry earlier on Sunday.

The demarche emphasised that Greece's struggle against fascism and Nazism during WWII was not disputed by anyone, warning that such actions posed an obstacle to the advancement and development of good-neighbour relations in the region.

There has been no reaction over the billboard ads by the FYROM government, which depicted the blue Cross morphed into a Swastika.

"This unacceptable poster, which was circulated via a private initiative and put up on Skopje's streets, directly insults our country's national symbol and our struggle against fascism and Nazism," a foreign ministry spokesman tersely said on Sunday afternoon in response to a press question.

The posters ostensibly promoted a photography and graphic arts exhibition set to open at the Skopje cultural and informational centre, which is under the aegis of the municipality of Skopje.

The ads were also condemned by the FYROM pro-government newspaper "Vecer", which printed the desecrated Greek flag on its front page under the banner headline "Shame", warning that the posters had exceeded all moral boundaries and incited ethnic and religious hatred.

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6292966&maindocimg=6291127&service=102

Athens Newspaper Headlines

The Monday [March / 31 / 2008] edition of Athens' dailies at a glance:


The FYROM name issue and Greece's position ahead of the NATO Summit in Bucharest beginning on Wednesday dominated the headlines on Monday in Athens' newspapers.



ADESMEFTOS TYPOS: "Veto on the horizon - FYROM issue: Clash with US is inevitable"

APOGEVMATINI: "Open letter by Apogevmatini to US President George Bush:Why Greece says 'no' to FYROM accession to NATO".

AVRIANI: "Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis' social package - Incentives for mothers and generous measures for young people and unemployed"

ELEFTHERI ORA: "Metropolitan Anthimos of Thessaloniki condemns the co-habitation agreement for homosexuals because it equalises humans with animals".

ELEFTHEROS: "FYROM humiliated the Greek flag - They filled up their streets with Greek flags, replacing the cross with a swastika".

ELEFTHEROS TYPOS: "Difficult period for Karamanlis - Greece poised for veto, in absence of Nimetz - The 48 hours of relentless 'behind the scenes' before the meeting with NATO's leaders".

ELEFTHEROTYPIA: "US 'ruse' to freeze the veto - Accession after NATO's summit through a scheduled ultimatum".

ESTIA: "Crucial hours for FYROM issue - Veto on Wednesday in Bucharest".

ETHNOS: "Salary raises in public sector in two installments - Up to 547 euros the loss in incomes".

TA NEA: "Bush's extortion over FYROM issue just hours before NATO's Summit - Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice makes 'coldwar' call to Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis".

VRADYNI: "Unbearable pressures, Greek resistance - US clearly favours FYROM, putting appearances aside".

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6292458&maindocimg=6055218&service=98

From Kathimerini:

FYROM veto seems likely

Tuesday April 1, 2008

Athens defiant in face of growing US pressure for Skopje’s NATO accession

Athens yesterday dug its heels in further on the Macedonia name dispute, saying it would veto Skopje's bid to join NATO at an alliance summit this week unless a compromise is reached on the Balkan country's name.

«We have stated our position repeatedly - I will say it again: No solution means no invitation,» Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis said yesterday in the face of growing pressure from Washington for a last-ditch settlement.

In a commentary published in today's International Herald Tribune, Bakoyannis says: «Greece has gone more than halfway on the issue, closer to two-thirds of the way... We cannot go any further.»

According to sources, Greek diplomats told Washington that the NATO accession of candidates Croatia and Albania should be approved at the summit but that the bid of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) should be shelved until the name issue is satisfactorily resolved. Washington reportedly rejected this scenario and made a counterproposal: that FYROM enter NATO under the «temporary» name accorded to it 17 years ago, which Athens finds totally unacceptable.

Meanwhile US President George W. Bush reiterated his support for FYROM's NATO bid, telling Germany's Die Welt that the name dispute «is an issue that can be resolved and definitely will be resolved.»

Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, who will attend tomorrow's summit, is due to have talks with PASOK leader George Papandreou for a briefing on the main opposition party's stance. Earlier yesterday, Papandreou phoned US Ambassador Daniel Speckhardt to complain about the US position which «ignores Greece's stance and does not boost regional stability.»

Meanwhile in Skopje, parliament canceled a debate on the latest proposal by United Nations mediator Matthew Nimetz, who had been entrusted with resolving the dispute but has taken a back seat over the past few days.

http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100004_01/04/2008_94989


Another editorial from Kathimerini:


No deal, no NATO


Tuesday April 1, 2008

We can only welcome the fact that the Socialist opposition leader George Papandreou has asked for a meeting with Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis that will take place early today.

The meeting between the two leaders is sending the right message. As Karamanlis will be meeting with the other leaders of NATO member states in Bucharest, he will have the majority of Greece’s public behind him.

US diplomats are expected to put all sorts of diplomatic pressure on Athens to overcome Greek objections to FYROM’s NATO membership bid.

The Greek premier however has made it clear that no settlement on the name dispute means no NATO accession for Skopje.

Moreover, a settlement must mean a fully binding and workable agreement. Not just promises and abstract pledges. Karamanlis and the country stand nothing to lose by insisting on this position. Only a veto, it seems, can bring about a settlement.



http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_columns_100022_01/04/2008_94980

From ANA-MPA:

Athens reiterates 'name issue' points

04/02/2008

A foreign ministry spokesman on Tuesday referred to the very short period of time remaining until Wednesday's NATO summit in Bucharest when asked about the prospects for a solution to the FYROM 'name issue' still separating Athens and Skopje.

"Dramatically marginal, but not non-existent," was spokesman George Koumoutsakos' laconic answer to press questions over the issue that has dominated the foreign affairs agenda over recent weeks, in light of the Alliance summit and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's (FYROM) application to join NATO.

He nevertheless noted that time was only restricted as far as the summit was concerned.

"If we are referring to a negotiations process under the UN's auspices, then there is no deadline, and we are ready to continue negotiations until a mutually acceptable solution is found," he said, adding that a new UNSC resolution will be necessary if such an agreement is achieved.

Moreover, asked about the political climate in the two neighbouring countries (Greece and FYROM) vis-?-vis the nagging dispute over the latter's constitutional name, Koumoutsakos said a string of provocations in neighbouring FYROM "are not limited to just the insulting defacing of the Greek flag, but to Greek history and the Greek people's sacrifices to defeat the Axis powers.

"One could speak of sporadic incidents, but my feeling is that these incidents not only confirm, but are the product of a specific line of reasoning by (FYROM) government circles - I definitely exclude the neighbouring people - in the neighbouring country; they confirm and are the product of a nationalistic and irredentist reasoning and policy that is supported and exploited by the desire to monopolise the name (i.e. Macedonia) as indicative of an entire wider region".

In emphasising the last point, the Greek foreign ministry spokesman said Athens sternly opposes a name that will allow a single country in the region to monopolise an entire geographical area.

In touching on a related aspect that has generated widespread press speculation in the local press, namely, claims of US administration "pressure" on Athens to back down on the issue, Koumoutsakos merely noted that Greece was in complete agreement with Washington over NATO's expansion in the western Balkans, reminding that Greece has been a frontrunner in efforts to promote the Euro-Atlantic course of the area's countries.

"We also back the 'open door' policy, and in this sense, there is no difference of opinion with the United States. The issue here, and it's at this point that some differences of opinion may arise, is the view that only technical criteria comprise the basis for approving an invitation for (NATO) membership?

"When there is a clear-cut problem, as you've seen in recent days, due to provocations and the accompanying atmosphere that has been created; when there is a problem in relations between a member-state and a prospective member, the member-state should not -- and this is quite reasonable -- consent to an invitation for membership. This is the situation; these are our principled and crystal clear positions, and all of these suggestions regarding 'pressures' or other expressions, I would term them 'intense encouragement', attempt to color an open and sincere discussion with the United States, a discussion between long-time allies," Koumoutsakos said.

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6297719&maindocimg=5313525&service=102


Again from ANA-MPA:

Inner Cabinet takes decisions ahead of NATO summit


04/02/2008


Prime minister Costas Karamanlis chaired a meeting of the Inner Cabinet on Tuesday for discussion of developments in the FYROM name issue and a crucial NATO summit that opens in Bucharest on Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, foreign minister Dora Bakoyannis that the Inner Cabinet session was held in preparation of the NATO summit, adding that all the facts were analysed and the final decisions taken.

Replying to questions on the Greek positions and prospect of Greece vetoing a NATO invitation for membership to FYROM, Bakoyannis said that Greece's positions were well-known and on record, and had also been stated in parliament and to all the political party leaders.

She said that the Greek government "is commencing this difficult process, having the country's political forces, in their entirety, at its side, with the same goals and the same prerequisites".

Meanwhile, replying to press questions earlier, environment, town planning and public works minister George Souflias said that the effort for finding a viable and mutually acceptable solution to the FYROM name issue "cannot be one-sided, in other words only by Greece".

"Greece, I believe, has done everything possible for a mutually acceptable and viable solution to be found. But there are boundaries that cannot be exceeded," Souflias said, adding that "we have reached the 'red line', and from here on we cannot make any other efforts".

In a separate statement, ruling New Democracy (ND) former leader Miltiades Evert stressed that "at the tiime when efforts are being made for finding a compromise solution to the Skopje name issue, the neighboring people of Skopje are provoking in the most unethical way, offending ournational symbol and our country's prime minister with montaged pictures, disregarding Greece's sacrifices and struggles against nazism".

With this attitude, he warned, the people of FYROM "reveal that they are not mature (ready) to accede NATO and the European Union".


http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6296443&maindocimg=1794317&service=6


From ANA-MPA:

Papandreou backs PM on FYROM issue

02/04/2008

"This is not the time for criticism...it is the time to strengthen Greece's voice in this critical negotiation," main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou said on Tuesday, after a meeting with prime minister Costas Karamanlis, held at the former's initiative, ahead of a crucial NATO summit that opens Wednesday in Bucharest, adding that "Greece is being wronged" and facing pressure "even from allies and partners" over the FYROM issue.

"Greece is in a crucial negotiation. There are pressures even from allies and partners, and I consider that Greece is being wronged," Papandreou told reporters after his meeting with the prime minister at the Maximos Mansion government headquarters.

"This is not the time for criticism. We have made criticism, and will continue to do so wherever and whenever necessary. It is the time to strengthen Greece's voice ahead of this critical negotiation, and that is why I came to meet with the prime minister," Papandreou said, adding that PASOK's position was "crystal clear", and a position that was shared by the entire Greek people: "We want a solution composite name with a geographical determinant, for all uses, without exception".

"We must say 'no' to all forms of a dual name, and of course 'no' to every effort at 'back-door' accession of the neighboring country to NATO without prior solution of the name problem," the main opposition leader stressed.

The PASOK leader said that he had volunteered to the prime minister to visit Skopje "even at the last minute" in order to "strengthen our country's negotiating position and contribute to a just solution of this problem".

Addressing himself to the people of FYROM, Papandreou warned that "actions of extreme symbolism, such as those that offend us all and our national symbols, are deplorable", adding his belief that "they do not express the entire people of the neighboring country, because we have a common future together, a common future for the Balkans, a common future of peace and stability in the region".

http://www.ana-mpa.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=6295824&maindocimg=6295720&service=8

From ERT:

Diplomatic Thriller

01 Apr 2008 09:03:00 (Last updated: 01 Apr 2008 22:40:41)

By Vivian Papastefanou

A day prior to the crucial NATO Summit in Bucharest and with the prospect of Greece vetoing a NATO invitation for membership to FYROM, the Inner Cabinet held Tuesday morning a meeting to consider the country’s stance on the issue. Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis stressed that the Inner Cabinet session took place in preparation of the NATO Summit, adding that all the facts were analysed and the final decisions taken. Asked on Greek positions and intentions, Bakoyannis underlined that the Greek positions were well-known and that they had been unveiled in Parliament and to all the political party leaders. The Greek Government, added the Foreign Minister, is entering this difficult process, having the nation’s political forces on its side, with the same goals and the same prerequisites. Earlier, the Prime Minister met at 09:30 with George Papandreou at the initiative of the PASOK president. After the meeting, Papandreou stated, "Greece is facing crucial deliberations. Even partners and allies are exercising pressure on Greece. Greece is receiving unfair treatment, adding that it is not time for criticism but time to strengthen Greece’s voice in these crucial deliberations. The opposition leader told the Prime-minister that he was willing to fly to Skopje to further strengthen the country’s position as well as to indicate the common stand of the country. Papandreou also repeated that solution to the name issue is a compound name, including geographical term for all uses. In reference to Skopje’s provocations, he condemned "any acts of extreme symbolism which offend our country and our national symbols", he added, however, that these acts do not express the majority of the neighbouring country’s people. Meanwhile, the prime minister briefed Mr Papoulias on the phone on the latest developments. In view of the Bucharest Summit Meeting, Mr Karamanlis sent letters to the NATO member-state leaders, presenting Greece’s arguments on the FYROM name issue.

In his letter to US President George Bush Greek Ambassador to Washington Alexandros Mallias refers to Skopje’s provocative actions, which falsify the Greek flag with the posting of posters. In parallel, Ambassador Adamantios Vassilakis briefed the Foreign Ministry and EU and NATO accredited Ambassadors to Greece, as well as the Ambassadors of China and Russia on Greece’s positions on the name issue.

No Solution-No Invitation Says Athens

In an interview with MEGA television channel last night, Foreign Minister, Dora Bakoyianni underlined that exercising veto right is a "big and difficult decision, but necessary". As she said "NATO’s door is open and Greece supports Skopje’s Euro-Atlantic prospect but there must be a solution. A mutually acceptable name, including a geographical term for all uses". Mrs. Bakoyianni will meet with the President of the German Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee at 10:15 to discuss NATO Summit meeting with focus on its enlargement.

In response to a relevant question, Environment and Public Works Minister, George Souflias said that efforts for a viable and mutually acceptable solution can not be unilateral, in other words only stemming from Greece. Greece has done everything possible for a viable and mutually acceptable solution, however, it can not go beyond certain limits, we have reached red line and we can not make any further effort from this point on.

LAOS President, George Karatzaferis told NET 105.8 that he will not agree to any compromise solution because it will be casus belli while he expressed belief that the Skopje issue would not be resolved.
In the meantime, several Washington scenarios, aimed to admit the neighbouring country into the NATO alliance, have come to light. In a telephone contact with the American ambassador to Athens, PASOK President, George Papandreou expressed both his and in general the country’s strong resentment, stemming from Washington’s stand on Skopke name issue. "Decisions for a country’s admission to NATO are based on the grounds on whether they meet terms and credentials set by the alliance" said the State Department.

Constructive Meeting

Governmental spokesman Mr. Theodoros Roussopoulos branded the meeting the Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis had with the leader of the opposition party Mr. A. Papandreou a positive meeting regarding Greece’s stance in NATO Summit Meeting.

Mr. Roussopoulos said that Mr. Papandreou’s suggestion on Skopje is welcomed. However, he stressed that these initiatives must take place in the right time and not a day before the beginning of NATO Summit Meeting and the departure of FYROM leadership to Bucharest.

He also stated that the Prime Minister has been in contact with foreign leaders as well as the Greek FM with her counterparts making clear the Greek stances.

When asked if our country’s previous history with New Mexico constitutes a claiming basis, after Mrs. Bakoyiannis relative reference on the issues, Mr. Roussopoulos said that the Greek diplomacy is taking into advantage all these arguments that can been drawn from history, geography and the national environment in order to persuade its allies and counterparts.

On reference to the consequences Greece may face in the case of a veto imposition, Mr. Roussopoulos said: "we have taken onto consideration all issues and as all of us already know we have defined our strategy and the tactic movements we have to make in the framework of the three day discussion of NATO Summit Meeting.

Regarding the possibility of pressures exercised by our allies, the governmental spokesman said: "a series of discussion has taken place among the Greek side and among many other sides for the issue. Each one is trying to convince others for its arguments"

Nikola Gruevski Optimistic

Meanwhile, FYROM Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski has left today for Bucharest , with President Branko Crvenkovski leaving on Wednesday.

During his departure, Mr Gruevski reported that despite the fact that there are no indications about a change in the Greek stance he is optimistic that FYROM will be invited to join NATO.

The PM to Visit Bucharest on Wednesday

PM Kostas Karamanlis, who is leaving in the afternoon for Bucharest to attend the NATO Summit Meeting will visit sit for a dinner at Cotroceni Palace after his arrival. In parallel, the Foreign ministers will sit for a working dinner. The official opening of the Summit Meeting will take place Thursday morning. Then, NATO will hold a meeting with the candidate countries. The NATO Secretary General as well as US President George Bush will deliver speeches. At about 13:00, a working dinner will take place and in the afternoon a meeting will be held on Afghanistan. A cultural event will be held at Athenaeum at 19:00 Thursday, to be followed by a dinner for NATO member-state leaders and foreign ministers. On Friday, a meeting will focus on NATO-Ukraine to be followed by another meeting on NATO-Russia. The Summit Meeting will conclude later and at 14:00 Mr Karamanlis will leave for Athens.

http://news.ert.gr/en/c/4/31851.asp

http://ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_columns_100020_02/04/2008_95027

Preparing for the storm
By Alexis Papachelas

Greece is going to need nerves of steel over the next days and weeks, as its veto of FYROM’s NATO membership is certain to irk Washington and other parts of the world. The prime minister seems ready to face the first major challenge in Bucharest and he is probably enjoying the fact that his handling of the issue will add a certain air of Andreas Papandreou to his pr