Athens, 16 May 2024 (MIA) - The logic of using the constitutional name in formal communication but not in public appearances by President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova is unacceptable for Greece, according to Greek Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis who at a media briefing Thursday, in answer to a question posed by MIA’s Athens correspondent, said the agreement must be respected in all formulations.

Asked by MIA about the press release issued by the President’s Office over the use of the name Macedonia and the constitutional name, Marinakis said when it comes to the highest position, the position of president of the country, “one of the pillars of democracy in a country, we cannot speak of a double language or personal right”.

“I think it is hypocritical to say this and to hear this. When it is necessary, for certain things, we will be formal, while in our public appearances we will do what we want or because we believe that this serves our public – Greece cannot accept this, nor can any other serious country. When we agree that a treaty must be respected, it’s because it is our obligation stemming from the fact that the agreement was ratified, and we need to do that in all formulations. Obviously, this logic cannot be accepted by Greece,” Marinakis said.

Regarding the three memoranda for cooperation which SYRIZA submitted to the Greek Parliament on Wednesday, the government said this is “one of the most incomprehensible moves of the opposition”.

“Not a single Greek citizen understands the purpose of this action, why such a rush. From the moment the President of North Macedonia didn’t accept the basic, main point of the Agreement, the main opposition in Greece wants us to do everything, adopt everything,” Marinakis said, adding that they could enter a concrete discussion if they see an appropriate position from the new Government.