Statement of the civic organisations

MACEDONIA AND THE EURO-ATLANTIC INTEGRATION

Macedonian Center for International Cooperation (MCIC), Humanitarian Organisation “El Hilal”, Movement against Disability “Polio Plus”, the National Council of the Women of the Republic of Macedonia (NSZM-SOZM), Humanitarian and Charitable Association of Roma “Mesecina” from Gostivar, Association of Citizens OXO and Association for Democratic Initiatives (ADI) from Gostivar express their opinion on the Euro-Atlantic integration of the Republic of Macedonia with the common stance: “Macedonia and Euro-Atlantic integration”.

Having in mind the principles of the international law, including the right for self-identification; Having in mind the Constitution of the Republic of Macedonia; Confident that answers to issues should always be sought through an open and continuous dialogue, founded on mutual respect and trust, We, the representatives of the civil society organizations, express the following opinion:

MACEDONIA AND THE EURO-ATLANTIC INTEGRATION 

Macedonia integrated in Euro-Atlantic structures
Macedonia and its citizens have reached a consensus on the need for membership in the European Union (EU) and NATO. Macedonia has made significant progress in undertaking reforms and developing its relations with the EU and NATO, with the ultimate goal of accession therein. The status as a candidate – country is proof of our achievements.

Efforts for national consensus and internal cohesion – continuing dialogue among all
During this period of time of bringing a decision for Euro-Atlantic integration of Macedonia, we request from the President of the State, the Government and the Parliament to uphold the level of national consensus and lead the process of reaching a common solution.
The political dialogue and the dialogue among all citizens in Macedonia, lead to internal cohesion and represent an answer to the inter-ethnic challenges. Thus, we are committed to further implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement. The civil society organizations are prepared to actively support the dialogue and consensus building.

Macedonia, right for self-identification, not a dispute
Greece challenges the right of Macedonia to choose freely its name although there are several countries in Europe, such as Luxembourg and Moldavia, with historical names which are identical to the names of territories in neighboring countries.
The right for self-identification cannot be disputed.

Macedonia and Greece – policy of force or partners for prosperity
Macedonia, for the sake of good relations with its neighbor, Greece, made several significant concessions, such as change of the national flag and adoption of constitutional amendments that confirm the absence of any territorial demands in neighboring countries.
The only concession made by Greece was the acceptance of Macedonia in the UN.
The Interim Accord from 1995 led to a significant progress in the bilateral relations between Macedonia and Greece.
Demand for further concessions from Macedonia, by extortion, does not contribute to good neighbor relations and mutual respect between Macedonia and Greece.
Greece should make an effort to declare its respect for Macedonia by adopting a statement for accepting the ethnic Macedonian identity in Macedonia, Macedonian culture and language.
Both Greece and Macedonia should express critical distance from the history of Ancient Macedonia, as universal value.
Macedonia should demand the substitution of the contemporary reference in the UN (Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia) without changing the Constitution and without applying this solution in relations to other countries.

Mutual respect for all neighbors
Macedonia will continue its good relations with all neighbors. This can be reiterated by adoption of declarations for good relations with all neighbors.
Macedonia should continue with its strong support to the endeavors made by the UN, EU and NATO in the region, including the Ahtisaari plan, for reason of safeguarding its national interests and developing good relations with the neighbors.

Macedonia deserves the NATO invitation and should focus on the start of negotiations with the EU
Macedonia has proved its commitment to the alliance through undertaking tough reforms and support to NATO, the EU and UN missions.
Macedonia deserves the NATO membership invitation.
Macedonia should continue with its strong commitment for start of the negotiations and endeavors for EU membership.

Skopje, March 26th 2008

• Macedonian Center for International Cooperation (MCIC)
• Humanitarian organization “El Hilal”
• Polio Plus – Movement Against Disability
• National Council of Women of the Republic of Macedonia (NCWRM – SOZM)
• Humanitarian and Charitable Association of Roma “Mesecina” - Gostivar
• Association of Citizens OXO
• Association for Democratic Initiatives (ADI) – Gostivar