The Prespa Agreement” binds both countries”, is “part of International Law” and for this reason its observance must be considered “self-evident”, and “in any case it is necessary and mandatory”, emphasized the former minister, former vice-president of the government and professor of constitutional law at AUTH, Evangelos Venizelos, at the 17th Balkan Gathering in Thessaloniki.

“The Prespa Agreement, which now governs Greece’s relations with North Macedonia, is an indication of how the problems can be dealt with and cease to exist foci of friction that create problems of regional stability,” said Mr. Venizelos and continued :

“There are many in Greece and North Macedonia who did not agree with the content of the Agreement, or would prefer different arrangements for individual issues. But the Prespa Agreement as signed is part of International Law, it binds the two countries, it was accepted by the international community, led to the accession of North Macedonia to NATO, was welcomed by the United Nations Security Council, led to the change of the official name by which North Macedonia is a member of the UN, is the foundation of the European perspective of North Macedonia observance and implementation of the Agreement, regardless of the internal political changes in the two countries, must be considered self-evident and in any case is necessary and mandatory, according to International Law”.

Mr. Venizelos also referred to the Greek-Turkish developments. “The meeting last Monday in Ankara between the Turkish President and the Greek Prime Minister confirmed the change in the climate and the style prevailing in the relations between the two countries. The aeronautical practices in the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean have changed, there are results in the management of migration flows, the transition of tourists from the Turkish shores to the Greek islands of the Aegean has been facilitated, an ambitious positive agenda has been formulated in the field of economy. All this has been achieved during an international difficult period of war in Ukraine and dramatic developments in the Middle East”.

Speaking about the Balkan Gathering, Mr. Venizelos welcomed its work, stressing that it is an informal meeting, but very productive, which promotes an essential dialogue framework for the problems of the region.

“Today we have the opportunity to discuss international and regional issues informally, expressing our personal point of view, without representing governments and without binding our countries. This informal approach can help transcendence, at least it can help to better understand our own us and the positions of others” said Mr. Venizelos and added: “After all, our common goal is the stability, peace and well-being of all the peoples and citizens of the Balkans”.

“It is unrealistic to say that all the bilateral problems that exist in the region can be solved,” Mr. Venizelos emphasized, among other things, and added:

“These problems have great historical depth and are linked to national and ethnic identities and the protection of minorities. But we can focus on avoiding the use or threat of use of force and the need to always keep the possibility of dialogue open. Diplomatic means and Respect for international law is not a strategy or a solution in itself, but it is the best we have.”