Historic ceremony launched for Macedonia-Greece agreement

Currently, the two prime ministers are speaking before those present, while shortly the agreement ending the 25-year dispute on Macedonia's name will be signed.

The law on ratification of the agreement is expected to pass to Government on Monday, while the same will be sent to the Assembly for approval.

The simple majority of those present in the hall are needed for approval. From the minimum quorum of 61 deputies, 31 are required to vote stood by. According to procedures, the law is sent to the presidency. President Ivanov is due to sign the same. While Ivanov uses veto rights, the agreement is back in parliamentary procedure, while then minimum 61 votes for the law's approval will be needed and the same again returns to the president, who under the constitution is obliged to sign it.

But President Ivanov has already announced his position that he will not sign such an agreement. Implementation of the deal will take place in several stages. It will come into effect because both sides will accept it in line with internal procedures, while since either side does not accept the agreement then it means the same is not worth it. Citizens will say their word in the referendum, which is expected to be held in September or October.