Greece, former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia resume UN-led talks on name

Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia today held United Nations-led talks in the Greek capital, Athens, over the official name of the latter country and related outstanding issues in the latest phase of efforts to resolve the dispute between the two European States.

Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis kicked off the talks, which were chaired by Matthew Nimetz, the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on the issue, UN spokesperson Marie Okabe told reporters.

Mr. Nimetz submitted a proposal which could serve as a basis for solving the name issue and related matters, and asked both sides to study his ideas, Ms. Okabe said. Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia are expected to respond to the proposal in the next few weeks.

The Interim Accord of 13 September 1995, which was 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.