Stoltenberg says Macedonia in NATO depends on referendum

Secretary - General NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, said on Monday that he expects from leaders of the Alliance's states to make a decision at the July summit to start negotiations on Macedonia's full membership in NATO.

Stoltenberg expects a consent to have Macedonia invited for full membership, however, says that for this to happen, full implementation of the agreement with Greece will be needed, more precisely the accession of the agreement in the autumn referendum.

I expect the heads of state and government to agree to accession negotiations, then we can invite Macedonia to become a full member, provided the agreement is finalised. Finalisation means full ratification, referendum and positive vote”, Stoltenberg said.

He added that the referendum failure means that Macedonia does not receive an invitation for NATO membership.

If the deal doesn't get support, I don't see an opportunity for the country. This is a special occasion to embrace”, Stoltenberg said. /