MAK-NEWS 07/09/95 (M.I.L.S.)

From: "M.I.L.S." <mils@ITL.MK>

Macedonian Information Liaison Service Directory

CONTENTS

MILS NEWS

Skopje, 7 September 1995

[01] EU SUPPORTS THE AGREEMENT

On behalf of the European Commission, Mr Hans van den Broek yesterday made the following statement: ''I welcome the announcement of the forthcoming signing of an agreement between Greece and the FYROM, reached under the auspices of the UN, which will make a valuable contribution to stability and security in the region. The Commission has been in close touch with all the parties concerned throughout the process and I commend all involved on their willingness to set aside conflict and to settle their differences. Following this agreement, I look forward to increased cooperation and the strengthening of ties between the European Union and FYROM which should reinforce stability in this sensitive part of the Balkans."

Meanwhile, Macedonian TV reported that the European Commission has the task to complete by next Wednesday an analysis of Greek-Macedonian relations within the framework of the whole situation in the Balkans. At the forthcoming informal meeting of the Foreign Minister members of EU, to be held in Spain next weekend, there is a possibility that on the agenda there will be a discussion of the perspectives for future relations between Macedonia and EU. EU will suggest to the Council of Ministers several proposals : increasing and intensifying the program PHARE, signing trade contracts between Macedonia and EU, and establishing a diplomatic mission of Macedonia at EU. Afterwards, a final decision should be reached by the Commission for termination or continuation of the procedure for legislature against Greece before the European Court of Justice.

[02] THE US SAFE-GUARDS PEACE

The US Assistant Secretary of State Richard Holbrooke, stated to Reuters that the agreement to put an end to the dispute between Macedonia and Greece is evidence that the American approach for an end of the war in former Yugoslavia gives results and predicts a positive future for Bosnian diplomacy. He stressed that Macedonia and Greece agreed to reach a compromise in the name of peace in the Balkans. According to his words, the forthcoming agreement is almost ready. He added that both sides wish the US to be safe- guards of peace through this agreement.

[03] THE NAME WILL NOT ENDANGER THE AGREEMENT

The US mediator Cyrus Vance for Reuters, stressed that : 'All elements of an agreement to end the dispute between Greece and Macedonia have been settled except for the name of the Former Yugoslav Republic. It is an agreement with crossed T's and dotted I's ' . Vance said that he did not expect the name issue to be settled by the time the new General Assembly session opens September 19.

[04] THE US WILL SOON ESTABLISH DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS WITH MACEDONIA

In the statement for Macedonian radio, special envoy of the US President in the Greek-Macedonian issue, Matthew Nimitz, emphasized that : " we are very close to solving the matter, and I hope to be soon establishing diplomatic relations between our countries. The standing of your country is firm and good, and throughout the negotiation with the other side we could conclude that we will come to an arrangement next week regarding this issue. We had a joint meeting with Vance and UN Secretary General Bouthros Ghali, and I can say that all members of the UN wish this problem to be solved as soon as possible.

[05] ATHENS INFORMED THE EU AMBASSADORS

Representative of the Greek Foreign Ministry, Kostas Bikas, announced that a high official of the Ministry, Aleksandros Mails, who is responsible for Balkan relations, called yesterday all Ambassadors of the EU in Athens, informing them of the forthcoming agreement for normalization of the Greek-Macedonian relations. Bikas for France press confirmed Holbrooke's statement that the Foreign Ministers of both countries will have a meeting in New York next week.

According to ANA, spokesman of Nea Democratia Vassilis Magginas said that Miltiadis Evert had expressed "complete opposition" to any agreement which did not include the name issue and had warned Papoulias that "otherwise developments would lead de fact to the establishment internationally of the name 'Macedonia'." Magginas strongly criticized the government's handling of the Skopje issue and added that Evert had asked Papoulias to convey the positions of ND to the Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou.

Nova Makedonija cites Jordas Adamidis, Director General of the Greek Union of Industrialists from northern Greece, as saying that Greek's businessmen from Thesaloniki welcomed the news for normalization of the relations. He said that due to the embargo, Greece is losing 90 million $ per year.

Meantime, according to the Macedonian TV, demonstrations are to be held in Greece against the discussions of the Greek Government to sign the agreement. Organizers of these demonstrations are the Greek Orthodox Church and the party of former Foreign minister Andonis Samaras, cites Nova Makedonija.

[06] VISAS WITHOUT PASSPORTS

According to A1 TV, there are details to be completed in the Greek-Macedonian agreement. TV reports that former Greek general Nikos Grilakis is in Skopje and is staying at the Grand Hotel under other name. It is thought that Grilakis has played an important role in the secret diplomacy between Skopje and Athens.

Regarding the explanation of the visas-passport system, A1 informs that Macedonian citizens could get visas for Greece at the Greek diplomatic office in Skopje. The visa will not be on their passports, but on a separate piece of paper. At the Greek border and during visiting there, Macedonian citizens will not show the passport but the paper with the visa. Meanwhile, Greece stands on the recent position for the limited issuing of visas. Also there is an ongoing process of opening the former Greek Consulate starting several days before, and Macedonians citizens who were employed there have been called to return to work, informs A1 TV.

The Macedonian Government scheduled a special session at which it will discuss the text of the agreement with all its parts. According to today's Nova Makedonija, the agreement will be valid for 7 years, while Skopski Vecer cites that the process for making the new flag is ongoing and that the procedure for its adoption can be conducted in one day. A two thirds majority of the votes in the Parliament is needed (80), and newspaper speculates that the Government has decided not to announce an open competition to design the new flag.

[07] REACTIONS

-In Belgrade, the news is evaluated as entering a new phase, as a result of the strong pressure coming from Washington. It is said that Macedonia agreed to change the flag symbol and certain articles of the Constitution, in exchange for lifting of the Greek embargo. It is thought that the most delicate issue, the name "Macedonia" is left aside. Also it is cited that resolution of the dispute will mean the beginning of bilateral relations between Skopje-Belgrade.

-Bulgarian media evaluate the readiness for signing the document as a great success for American diplomacy. Sofia Kontinent writes that the American diplomacy forced unyielding Greeks to negotiate with Macedonians and not to put an ultimatum. The rest of the Bulgarian media, citing Greek comments, write that there are several reasons for Clinton's optimism for a great step towards the peace and security in the Balkans, among which is also the Serbian pressure on Gligorov to attach Macedonia to some probable new confederation in the regions of former Yugoslavia.

Bulgarian TV thinks that the beginning of the negotiations between Greece and Macedonia will certainly improve the role of Bulgaria and Bulgarian organizations in resolving the Macedonian economic problems.

-President of the Group for French - Macedonian Friendship, senator Roland Bernar, stressed that the latest events in the Greek - Macedonian relations will lead to an evolution of the situation. This will enable Macedonia to gain admittance to all international organizations.

-Social Democratic Alliance of Macedonia (SDSM) announced yesterday that they supported the offered proposals for real solving of the dispute and expressed belive that they are in the interest of the Macedonian citizens and all in the wider region.

-MAAK-Conservative Party finds that only the total recognition of the state and territorial integrity of the Republic of Macedonia from Greece and the rights of Macedonians living in Belomorska Macedonia can be accepted as direct agreement with Greece. Acceptance of any other terms in the negotiations will be taken as an act of national treason by the current government. Protesting against the statement of German Ministry Kalus Kinkeln of the existence of two ethnic groups in Macedonia and of the launch of the Great-Albanian center in the state and Soros Institution, MAAK points out that in Macedonia there are only Macedonian people and several national minorities. The state as well as the Head of the Macedonian Orthodox Church, currently persuading the Macedonian Diaspora, is involved in the change of the flag. In defense of the national interest, MAAK-Conservative Party sent an appeal to VMRO- DPMNE and the Democratic Party for necessary joint activity.

-Social-Democratic Party of Macedonia supports and evaluates as an inevitable conclusion of the several year efforts of the current government, of the international community, and of the USA, for development of the good Macedonian neighboring relations, for peace and stability in the Balkans.

-Demo-Christianic Party of Macedonia says that the normalization of the Greek-Macedonian relations is in the interest of both sides and that the only alternative is a compromise attitude in resolving the problems.

[08] DIPLOMATIC BRIEFS

-Macedonan Ambassador of Sweden, by decree from Macedonian President Kiro Gligorov, is post to a position of Ambassador to Republic of Lithuania.

-A Commission of the Foreign policy of Japanese Parliament will arrive today as a guest of the Macedonian Commission for Foreign Policy. Highest officials will receive the delegation.

-In Paris yesterday started the official talks between the representatives of Macedonian Government, World Bank and IMF. They will discuss the amount of financial aid which the countries should give to Macedonia in the coming period.

[09] INTERNATIONAL COURSE FOR EARTHQUAKE ENGINEERING

Yesterday, the Institute for Earthquake Engineering (IZIS) in Skopje began the course for seismic building and projecting, which is the result of cooperation with the government of Holland. The course will last for 3 months and is attended by professional of the developing countries.

[10] FOOTBALL

In the qualifications for the European Football Championship in England, Macedonia team in Skopje was defeated yesterday by Armenian representation 2:1. Macedonia scored one by Micevski, while Babunski missed to realize the penalty. Meantime, the youth team in Stip won the game with the Armenian youth team with the score 3 : 2.

MILS SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT:

[11] MEET THE AUSTRALIAN - MACEDONIAN INTELLECTUALS : VICTOR BIVELI

(Previously featured in "Today-Denes" Melbourne, Australia)

Question : The Macedonian communities in the new homelands, mainly Australia, USA, Canada and Western Europe, have gone through a stormy period, particularly in the last few years since the independence of a coutry for all Macedonians, the Republic of Macedonia. How, according to you, can the form and content of national traditions be modernised and adapted in the new homelands?

Answer : The culture of a nation is the sum of its people's cretivity and so it can never be static. Change is a fundamental principle of creativity and community life, just as it is of everything else in the universe.

Paradoxically, traditions also change, even if some instances this is imperceptible. Over time the culture and traditions in Macedonian have changed as surely as they have in Australia. This change, which in some cases is based on adaptation, is natural and often necessary.

For example, over recent decades the Macedonian Language has adapted to the imperative of English as the world language and has absorbed many thousands of English words into the vocabulary. This is the natural process of Macedonian adapting to a changing Europe and a changing world, and is necessary if the Macedonian language is to continue to be relevant.

In the contrast, the French attempt to avoid this process by legislating against English words when there is supposedly a French equivalent to modern concepts, is unlikely to succeed.

In this example, I believe the changes to the Macedonian language will hold Macedonian and Macedonians in excellent stead for many centuries to come.

Yet, while the Macedonians in Europe have been saying yes to English, many older Macedonians in Australia have been saying no to English by refusing to learn the language or even trying.

Through their life in Australia or through the Macedonian language itself, these same Macedonians will inevitably absorb some English and Australian words into their vocabulary, but will do so in a semi-conscious and haphazard manner that does not maximize the process nor their skills and self esteem. In fact, it will reinforce their limitations in a vicious circle.

As their children willingly learn English, a further result is that these parents risk becoming alienated from this part of their children's lives. They may also lose some of their children's respect and with it the ability to pass on the Macedonian language and other cultural traditions.

There are many instances where traditions are undergoing natural and inevitable change.

There are many instances where traditions are undergoing natural and inevitable change. This is best handled by accepting and managing the process to enhance the result. If the ruling generation cannot do this competently, it will be done, consciously or unconsciously, by the next generation.

This does not mean that Macedonians cannot say no to certain influences; everyone should reserve that right when appropriate. But it does mean knowing when to say yes, and saying yes more often than has been the case.

Question : How is it possible to find the best and least painful means of cooperation between Macedonians in the Republic of Macedonia and Macedonians in the Diaspora? How is it possible to eliminate the barriers set up by party politics, propaganda and ideology? In particular, how shall the problem of cooperation with Macedonians in Greece, Bulgaria and Albania be resolved?

Answer : As an Australian citizen I have little interest in the party politics of another country, including Macedonia, and I believe that overseas party politics should not be brought to Australia.

As a person of Macedonian background it is enough for me to know that Macedonia has a viable democratic system and that in time every political party competent enough to make a contribution will be able to do so. It is right to have a concern for the wealthy functioning of the democracy; but who runs the system an when are decisions for the Macedonians in Macedonia.

Rather than fight each other over here about issues over there, I would like to see Macedonians in Australia help other Macedonians in this country by becoming active in Australian politics.

Alternatively, I would like to see them help the Macedonians in Greece, Bulgaria and Albania by joining the campaign for human rights in these countries. I see these as the only two sensible options for Macedonians in Australia who are politically minded but not want to live in Macedonia.

One answer to the sometimes painful cooperation between Macedonians in the Republic of Macedonia and Macedonians in the Diaspora lies in the need to modernize Macedonia's telecommunications infrastructure.

As a business person, I find one of the greatest impediments to cooperation is the frustration of trying to physically communicate with Macedonia, particularly via phone and fax. An investment in the modern telecommunications infrastructure that results in quick, reliable and inexpensive communications between Macedonia, its Diaspora and the rest of the world will repay itself many times over. There is also problems in the Republic with the understanding of western business principles, and no doubt there are many opportunities in Macedonia for those able to integrate Western practices and goods into the Macedonian economy. This would be legitimate role for an Australian based business association.

Question : How in your opinion, can the information disseminated in the Diaspora by the RM. become more democratic? The very fact that the media there is financed by the ruling parties would suggest that it is also controlled by them. The Macedonians in the Diaspora appreciate independent information, yet how is that to be achieved?

Answer : Common sense would not trust any political grouping to provide an objective information service all of the time and we find that safeguards for objectivity and balance are necessary around the world no matter who is in power.

In the West information has been democratized by adding a substantial layer of private media to the base of government outlets, as we see in Australia with the ABC co-existing with private operations. I believe these principles of private media ownership and diversification are the best way for every country to go.

The need for more independent outlets in Macedonia means there are business opportunities in this regard, but exploiting these opportunities requires large private investment and suitable entrepreneurs.

Given the proliferation of Macedonian newspapers and radio programs in Australia, one would expect a similar growth in Macedonia.

What Macedonians in Australia have not demonstrated is equal enthusiasm for the other forms of media, including magazines, film, video and television.

However, diversity is only one answer for vested views in the media, whether Government or privately owned. Others are competition, investigative journalism, and critical public.

Question : It is said that the intelligentsia in the RM. is under the control of the government and is therefore too silent or too directed in its behavior. To what extent can the intelligentsia of the Diaspora influence this impression?

In point of fact, does the intelligentsia in the Diaspora make enough effort towards self realization in the new lands?

Answer : My main concern with the intelligentsia in Macedonia has been its inability to effectively communicate with the West, and this is evident in the general ignorance about Macedonia in Europe, America and Australia. When communication does occur the English language that emanates from the Republic is generally of such a low standard as to be embarrassing.

Both of these points were particularly evident over the past four years in Macedonia's diplomatic tussle with Greece on the world stage.

While some aspect of the almost every relevant article in the Western media, the Macedonian Diaspora and other Western readers struggled to find a half decent explanation of the Macedonian position, despite there being so much to say. Those we did find were inevitably written by non- Macedonians. At times even the Albanians in Macedonia gained significally more media coverage than the Macedonians from the Republic.

I think it is fair to say that in terms of competence in dealing with the international media, Macedonia revealed that has a lot to learn.

I believe there are many influential people and organizations around the world including the western world who are yet to be properly briefed on the Macedonian story.

Question : What should be done to guarantee continuity of the generations in the Diaspora? Many ethnic communities have known the problem of establishing churches, social and cultural centers, and not having anyone to take them over in the new generations. Such for example has been the fate of the "Bulgarian Macedonians'' centered on the MPO and the "Yugoslav " Macedonians and so forth. In the present situation in Australia, USA, Canada and Europe, have the Macedonians a better chance of self-affirmation and preservation of their perennial traditions?

Answer : Because nothing is guaranteed to last, a culture wins its continuity through hard work : this is what Gotse Delchev meant when he said that the world is an arena for the competition of cultures.

This is particularly true in the Diaspora, where the next generation has a choice of identity and culture.

The older generation cannot legislate for their children to preserve the Macedonian culture, nor can they simply order their children to love and respect it. There are choices that lie with each individual.

We know that the younger generation instinctively wants to love their parents' culture and will do so where they see that it is a worthy recipient for their natural affection. In its own discerning way each new generation looks for relevance, modernity, and some enhancement to self esteem Thus it is up to parents to ensure that when they pass on their culture to their children, the culture they offer is acceptable to modern sensibilities. This means striking the right balance between preserving the best of the old while adopting the best of the new, something which is never easy. In Australia, I think the role of pride is crucial as a factor for the survival of the Macedonian culture. But pride, like respect and acceptance, must be earned and deserving.

(end)

mils news 7 September '95

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