The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, today in Villa Biljana in Ohrid, met with Mr. Matthew Nimetz, Special Representative of the Secretary General of United Nations in the name talks.

At the meeting, in anticipation of the official visit of the Secretary General of the United Nations, H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, President Ivanov reaffirmed Macedonia’s state position and strong commitment to finding a mutually acceptable solution to the difference over the name, within the established format, under UN auspices.

“We are ready immediately, without delay, to sit at the table, to seek and find a solution. It is possible to come to a solution. I expect you to appeal the other party to adhere strictly to the framework in which talks are led, not tackling other issues such as language and identity”, the Macedonian President said before Mediator Nimetz, adding that these are basic prerequisites for finding solution without winners and losers.

As President Ivanov stressed, the Republic of Macedonia remains constructive in the process, ready for high level meetings to review new initiatives and intensify the dialogue. But, at the same time, the Republic of Macedonia insists on full respect of the Interim Accord and the judgment of the International Court of Justice in The Hague, and expects in this regard, support from mediator Nimetz, for consistency with and respect of international commitments and accepted contractual frames, which is of crucial importance. Also, President Ivanov conveyed to mediator Nimetz that he has invited Papoulias for a meeting in various occasions, and that the Greek President has responded.

We expect the Greek side, in the spirit of good neighborly relations, to show flexibility and good will to create a positive atmosphere, progress in the process and overcoming of the difference over the name, issue that was imposed to us, the resolution of which is in the interest of both countries and both peoples”, President Ivanov said, expressing his gratitude to mediator Nimetz for the engagement and commitment of the United Nations regarding this issue.