Statements by Greek officials aim at diverting attention from the pointlessness of name row, says Naumovski

Skopje, 4 April 2011 (MIA) - Statements made by current or former Greek officials aim at somehow diverting attention from the meaninglessness of the name dispute, imposed by Greece, said Vice PM responsible for European affairs Vasko Naumovski on Monday commenting a recent statement by ex-Greek ambassador to Macedonia, Alexandros Mallias, that the name issue is a matter of national security.

"The pointlessness of this dispute imposed by Greece stems from the fact that there is no other country in the world bearing the name Macedonia, or being related to an adjective Macedonian... which Macedonia might be identified with. This country has no other name, neither the people have had other identity in the past. Simply, the meaninglessness of the row further continues with similar statements," Naumovski stated before an opening of a conference on topic "EU Funds - Communications Strategy and Instruments".

He voiced hope that even in Greece an increasing number of politicians and citizens would understand that Macedonia posed no threat for Greece. "On the other hand, we - as a state and nation - have never had, nor can go by other name and identity. We believe that with Greece we will be able to work jointly for our common European future," the Vice PM noted.

French Ambassador to Macedonia, Jean-Claude Schlumberger speaking to reporters reiterated France's position: "You are well aware of France's position - it is a bilateral dispute," he said.

Asked about his expectations in relation to the upcoming visit to Macedonia by and talks with EU Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fule and European Commission's President José Manuel Barroso, Vice Premier Naumovski said the visit was a part of their tour of the region in a bid to learn more about activities conducted in terms of the EU agenda.

"We'll present all of the activities that are being carried out. In 2009 and 2010 Macedonia received positive reports, which included a recommendation for start of EU membership negotiations. Talks are being hindered due to a blockade imposed by Greece. Despite that, our reforms are resumed - no veto can prevent us from implementing reforms in Macedonia," Naumovski concluded.

The Vice PM said that Fule and Barroso's visit would be used by the political parties to present to them their European agenda and their contribution to the process.

"Macedonia's process of EU integration is not part of the daily political agenda - it is our strategic priority enabling Macedonia to become a modern state with benefits for all of its citizens regardless of their political orientation," stated Naumovski.

Asked whether country's political situation and the upcoming early polls were expected to be discussed, he noted that Macedonia was one of the many Balkan countries that Fule and Barroso were to visit.

"With some of their earlier and ongoing tours, they are demonstrating that the enlargement process remains on the top of EU's agenda. We believe that we are going to be supported - our ongoing reforms and activities aimed at implementing European standards in the Macedonian society," the Vice PM in charge of European affairs stressed.