Moghrin: Prespa deal unique to Skopje's reconciliation with Athens

The Prespa deal is a unique case of reconciliation and closure of the two-decade dispute between Skopje and Athens, and this case may no longer repeat, the European Union's top security and foreign policy representative, Federica Moghrini, ordered in an interview with MIA.

Tomorrow, it will be understood whether there is the necessary majority in Macedonia's Parliament for the implementation of the Prespa Agreement. What's your order right now?

“I have had the privilege of participating in the signing of the agreement between Prime Ministers Zoran Zaev and Aleksis Cipras in June near Lake Prespa. Both sides showed political courage, leadership, responsibility and worked hard to overcome old differences and problems and reach this historic agreement, which the whole of Europe welcomed.

There are now national procedures for implementing the agreement that are being held on both sides and that should be protected and respected. I understand the complex historical sensibilities and background of the conflict as well as the sorrows expressed. The context has not been as long for no reason, yet as we have seen in the past, the longer it takes, the harder it is to find a solution. The negotiation process must have been painful, and the result is a compromise. But it is a compromise with which the key interests of both sides are met successfully. Our position is clear: The EU entirely supports the agreement reached. This is the unique opportunity for reconciliation of the Western Balkans, which may not be repeated. I hope that all parties will capture this moment and that they will secure futures in the EU for the country, future which all nation hopes for years to come true.

Does the positive result mean speeding up the enlargement process?

“Feeting, regional co-operation and good neighbourly relations play a key role in our commitment to the Western Balkans and is a key principle of the enlargement process, so resolving such serious conflict is one of great value for the region and a case for progress on the road to the EU. If the moment is used wisely to advance the reforms needed, then there is important progress ahead. Countries-members cleared the way for the start of negotiations in June this year, on the basis of clear conditions. This is part of our strong engagement in the region, which is of interest to all, even to member states and the region.

If the deal passes will it bring more stability to the region?

The historic agreement could contribute to the transformation of the entire Western Balkan region. Maintaining good neighbourly relations helps us work together to face many challenges and moments that we share, including areas such as migration. The refugee crisis showed that wars that start far from Brussels or Skopje may have impacts, sooner or later, in Europe. The Western Balkans are in Europe's heart, we are mutually dependent. I believe that together we can accomplish much for the prosperity, security and stability of our peoples. / MIA/