North Macedonia's New President Stirs Diplomatic Tensions at Inauguration

Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova's reference to 'Macedonia' instead of 'North Macedonia' revives a longstanding dispute with Greece, risking EU accession efforts.

Siljanovska-Davkova, sworn in as North Macedonia's first female president, used the controversial name 'Macedonia' during her inauguration, prompting the Greek ambassador to exit the ceremony.
The Greek Foreign Ministry condemned the act, stating it jeopardizes both nations' relations and North Macedonia's European Union membership prospects.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of adhering to the Prespa Agreement for continued EU accession progress.
The 2018 Prespa Agreement, which resolved the name dispute by renaming the country to 'North Macedonia', facilitated its NATO membership and EU candidacy.
Siljanovska-Davkova vows to 'feminize' and 'Europeanize' the country, leveraging her historic election to unify and reform.