North Macedonia’s new President, Siljanovska, said “Macedonia” in the oath, referring to the Republic of Macedonia as it was known until 2019.
The New President of “North Macedonia” said “Macedonia” in the oath, referring to the Republic of Macedonia as it was known until 2019. Greece believes that Macedonia refers to a kingdom in Greek antiquity and considers it a clash of interests. Greece only allowed “Macedonia” to enter NATO after changing its name to North Macedonia. This name does not refer to any historical name and is limited to a geographical reference.
When taking the oath, repeating after the President of the Assembly, Jovan Mitreski, who used the country’s constitutional name, the Republic of North Macedonia, Siljanovska-Davkova used only ‘Macedonia’.
According to the Macedonian dailies, newly elected president Siljanovska said, giving the solemn oath, “I declare that I will fulfil the position of President of Macedonia conscientiously and responsibly. I will respect the Constitution and the laws and protect Macedonia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence.”
The Greek ambassador, Sophia Philippidou, left Siljanovska-Davkova’s inauguration in protest.
The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs later released a statement, claiming that the new President Siljanovska’s actions violated a bilateral agreement and jeopardised both bilateral relations and North Macedonia’s aspirations for EU membership.
