Nimetz on FYROM: We have to be realistic that compromise is needed

He recognizes that there are different positions between the two countries and within them,among parties and within the societies, and calls for everyone to be realistic and compromising.

"The meeting between Prime Ministers Tsipra and Zaev in Davos was positive and important, a truly historic meeting if it ultimately leads to the resolution of significant differences between the two neighbors," the UN mediator said. "It is high time to intensify the talks on the terms of a comprehensive agreement, with attention to the issues highlighted by the two prime ministers. According to their intention, I am going to Athens and Skopje for talks to promote the process. I believe that there is momentum now in finding solutions."

"There are already concrete steps and it is time to intensify negotiations, to speed up and reach an agreement. We can move on quickly to get a positive result within a few months, perhaps earlier."

"We must all recognize that the positions of the two governments are not the same in relation to many of the open issues and that there are differing views in both countries by political leaders and, in general, from the population on this issue, that are to be taken into account . Therefore, we must be realistic that compromise is needed. Overall, I believe that there is now a general desire in both countries and the international community in general to resolve the open issues between the two neighbors and that solutions can be found. This is a historic opportunity that we all need to take advantage of. "

The United Nations mediator has concluded, according to Kathimerini, that what is sought and feasible is a complex name that has been officially supported by Athens for many years and which, and after  Zoran Zaev took power in FYROM, it is also now accepted by the neighboring country. He  proposes widespread use of the new name once Macedonia joins the European Union, but not before its accession. In the meantime, he supports the use of the new name in international organizations and fora.