UN Sees 'Positive Dynamic' in Talks on FYROM Name

 
 
The UN Special Representative for the name dispute between Greece and FYROM has said that there is positive momentum in ongoing talks.
Speaking to Greek public broadcaster ERT, U.S. diplomat Matthew Nimetz welcomed a lack of provocative rhetoric by the new Skopje government and renewed interest by Athens in resolving the long-running issue.
Nimetz refused to disclose details of the proposals which are currently discussed, revealing however, that “there is nothing that is completely new, some new magical solution to the problem”.
As he prepares a fresh round of talks on Wednesday between the two sides in New York he urged a spirit of compromise.
“I think that citizens in both countries may be ready to hear about solutions that are in line with their national interests, but they also have compromise elements that will solve the issue,” he said.
He characterized historical and heritage issues that have created animosity between the two sides as “secondary”.
“There are also concerns in Greece about historical issues, the appropriation of historical heritage, schoolbooks, which we must finally answer.
“There are these side-related issues, which we know and are important, but there are solutions to them as well. Two friendly neighbors can solve them,” Nimitz said.
He stressed that a solution to the chronic dispute would be beneficial to both countries and that Greece “could play a much more significant leadership role in the [Balkan] region”.
The UN official also praised Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias for designing and implementing confidence-building measures between the two countries.