North Macedonia’s President, Gordana Siljanovska, has addressed accusations from Greece regarding the alleged violation of the Prespa Agreement. Newly appointed to her position, Siljanovska asserts that she has not breached the agreement and insists that Greece is misinterpreting its terms.
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| Gordana Siljanovska and Kyriakos Mitsotakis, montage |
Background of the Accusation
Greece has accused North Macedonia of not adhering to the Prespa Agreement after President Siljanovska referred to her country as “Macedonia” instead of “North Macedonia” during her oath of office on May 12. This incident has escalated tensions, with Greece threatening to block North Macedonia’s EU integration efforts.
President Siljanovska’s Response
“I have respected the Prespa Agreement. I do not see how I have violated it. Moreover, the Prespa Agreement clearly states that official documents and communications will use the name stipulated by the agreement, so I do not see a violation here. I have neither disregarded statutory guarantees, nor stated that I would not respect the Constitution, nor said that I would denounce the Prespa Agreement. I have criticized the Prespa Agreement for the process of its adoption and its inconsistency with the United Nations Charter. But it is a legal fact, a reality, and I will respect it,” stated Gordana Siljanovska.
When asked whether her actions might affect the country's European integration, Siljanovska suggested that the question should be directed to the Greek side. She emphasized that while she is asked to respect the agreement, Greece should also adhere to it. She pointed out that Greeks continue to refer to “North Macedonia” using the acronym “FYROM” (Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia).
Siljanovska’s Criticism of Greek Compliance
“I cannot answer that, because perhaps Greek representatives can respond better. I sometimes hear warnings and threats, but I believe it is true that in international law, the principle that agreements must be respected prevails. However, I think it is always natural to ask ourselves what we have done when asking others to comply in a 'win-win' logic. I believe anyone who has visited Greece has seen that the name we are asked to respect is not shown anywhere. Skopje continues to exist, and in many places, the acronym 'FYROM' is still used. Let's not even mention the memorandums,” said Siljanovska.
Implications for EU Integration
This controversy highlights ongoing tensions between North Macedonia and Greece regarding the Prespa Agreement and its implementation. The potential impact on North Macedonia's EU integration remains uncertain, with both sides calling for mutual respect and adherence to the terms of the agreement. As the situation develops, the international community will be closely monitoring the actions and rhetoric from both nations.