Greek and FYROM talks about conflict over the name of FYROM

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and FYROM Prime Minister Zoran Zaev raised the prospect of settling the conflict over the name of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM). The long-standing dispute concerns the naming of the former member of Yugoslavia and the traditional geographic region in northern Greece named Macedonia. An agreement opens up the possibility for the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to join the European Union, as well as NATO.

Ska Keller, President of the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament, comments:

"We very much welcome these first steps opening the door to a long-term resolution of this conflict. This would be a historical achievement. After decades of controversy, the two governments finally have the chance to overcome the shadow of their past.

"All political forces should support this effort as it is a historical chance to get out of the deadlock and further open the door for partnership and conciliation. That will dramatically improve the future prospects for both sides. ”