Greece and former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia meet for UN-led talks

Representatives of Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia met today in another round of United Nations-led talks over the question of the official name of the latter country and related issues.

Representatives of the two countries met in New York at the initiative of the Secretary-General’s Personal Representative Matthew Nimetz.

Greece was represented by Ambassador Adamantios Vassilakis and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia was represented by Ambassador Nikola Dimitrov.

Mr. Nimetz “urged the Parties to consider all possibilities so that a solution to this dispute can be found within a reasonable time frame,” according to a statement issued following the talks. “I believe a solution to an issue that divides two neighbouring countries is very much in the interests of both Parties and would also greatly contribute to regional peace and security.”

He said he put forward “a draft framework for their consideration as a basis for an honourable and fair resolution” and urged Ambassadors Dimitrov and Vassilakis to bring these suggestions to their Governments for study.

“These discussions under the Secretary-General’s auspices will continue in an effort to reach a resolution. I have indicated a willingness to go to Athens and Skopje in the near future to consult with the two Governments more intensively. Both Ambassador Dimitrov and Ambassador Vassilakis will discuss such a mission with their Governments.”

Article 5 of the Interim Accord of 13 September 1995, brokered by the UN, details the difference between the two countries regarding the official name of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. It also obliges the two sides to continue negotiations under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General to try to reach agreement on their dispute.