Macedonia says yes to changing its name to North Macedonia

Photo: EPA

Despite a low turnout, as only one third of voters showed up, but with a 91% of votes in favour, the Republic of Macedonia citizens voted YES last Sunday in a referendum on changing its name to North Macedonia.

The vote aimed to end a long-running dispute with its neighbour Greece, which has its own region called Macedonia. Athens had agreed to end its objections to Macedonia’s EU and Nato membership bids if this name change happens.

Our MEPs Ivo Vajgl and Petras Austrevicious, Members of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, welcome the referendum results as a positive approach for the country to join the EU in a near future, despite the low turnout. Watch their reactions below:

More info: david.vidal@europarl.europa.eu