The President of the Republic of Macedonia Dr. Gjorge Ivanov in New York met with the United Nations Mediator in talks to overcome the dispute that the Hellenic Republic imposes about Macedonia's name.
- There is an increased feeling of confidence that the problem can be solved through dialogue at the highest level, among the leaderships of the two countries. This is a very positive development. I feel that the parties now talk among themselves about issues we can see some expectations and it is possible to find a solution to this problem, Ambassador Matthew Nimetz said after the meeting.
The Macedonian representative in the name talks, Ambassador Zoran Jolevski said that President Ivanov briefed Nimetz on the position of the Republic of Macedonia, thus stating the determination and commitment of the country on finding a mutually acceptable solution as soon as possible, a solution that will protect the dignity of the Macedonian citizens.
Asked whether the level of trust is sufficient for both parties to find a solution by November or December, Nimetz replied that he would not speculate, because, according to him, imposed deadlines are never good for such negotiations.
- Imposed deadlines create false expectations and unnecessary disappointments if they are missed and therefore I would not talk about deadlines. I would say that working on this issue for many years, I think from 1994, surely I see a dialogue that gives me a realistic expectation that the problem, at this point, may be mutually resolved with a decision that both sides would feel they have achieved the national goals and protect the national pride on both parties, the Mediator said.
He said that he did not come out with a new proposal at the meeting and that the course of the process was discussed.
- I will not provide any new proposals. Over the years I gave suggestions to the parties. They were never entirely satisfactory, but for some of the ideas I think it was worth discussing them, so I feel positive in that direction. Let the process continue and see how it develops - Nimetz said.