Today's event at Brdo near Kranj demonstrated that Brussels does not stand behind the statement given by Greek Prime Minister Andonis Samaras according to which it is the EU, and not Greece, that blocks Macedonia – estimated Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov.

In response to a journalist question regarding the answer he received from French President François Hollande on why there is silence in Brussels when it comes to Macedonia, President Ivanov said that this silence was interrupted by Hollande himself who stated at the press conference that France will do its best in order to enable Macedonia and Greece to find a resolution to what is seen as a barrier towards European integration.

The very fact that after the statement of President Hollande, Presidents Pahor and Josipovic also underlined their efforts and wishes to see the Region integrated, also speak that Brussels does not support the statement by Mr. Samaras, stated the Macedonian President in response to a question after the closing of the Brdo Process Leaders Meeting in Brdo near Kranj.

During today's event in Brdo near Kranj, President Ivanov also had a bilateral meeting with French President François Hollande.

Taking into consideration the good relations it has with Greece, France wishes to help in finding a solution to the problem between Macedonia and Greece. It is a fact that there is a stalemate as regards the resolution of this problem. It is also a fact that we cannot simply let this problem exist. Something has to be done when it comes to this issue. This is why France is ready to use the influence it has in order to try and find a solution, because this very complicated issue has been open for too long – stated the French President at the press conference following the plenary session of the Brdo Process Leaders Meeting, adding that he wishes to reiterate the support that France has been giving and will continue to provide to the integration of the Western Balkan countries in the European Union.

Upon the proposal of President Ivanov, two items were added to the conclusions of the Brdo Process Leaders, according to which legally binding agreements represent a basis for a common future within the EU, and that open issues may be resolved on the basis of an open political dialogue, by respecting the assumed international obligations and responsibilities.