Tsipras and Zaev meet in Skopje before Western Balkans Economist summit

Tsipras, who was prime minister when the Prespes Agreement was signed with the neighboring country in June 2018, and Zaev both conveyed the message to Europe that "we proved that in the Balkan region we can deal with nationalism and overcome introversion with a vision for the future," sources said, while "the time has come for the EU to do the same, opening the way towards accession talks for North Macedonia."

Sources said that the two men confirmed that the Prespes Agreement "created new dynamics in the area and placed the relations of both countries on a strategic base." Tsipras and Zaev also discussed progress in implementing the agreement and the need for further progress.

When Tsipras arrived, Zaev welcomed him warmly, saying "we made history."
Tsipras is speaking at the Economist summit at 10:00 a.m. local time. Other speakers include former European Parliament president Martin Schulz.