Discussions today mostly focused on respect to international law, which is our field because we respect it both at home, towards our neighbors and in our foreign policy. Our hosts are not at the same level, and we are prepared to help them in turning their words into practice, which would be good for us, the region and the EU, said Foreign Minister Nikola Poposki after Saturday's informal meeting of EU foreign ministers, MIA reports from Athens.

"We can help them giving a good example of putting their words regarding the observance of international law into practice", he stressed.

Regarding Greece's claims that Macedonia is the one disrespecting international law, FM Poposki said the most competent and neutral institutions were the best indicators.

"Firstly, the International Court of Justice, a UN body with a clear ruling that Macedonia has not violated international law in any aspect. The only violation was made by a NATO member-state, which has illegally blocked us from joining. Secondly, regarding criteria, the European Commission has said for years that we have met criteria. Therefore, everything else is just an attempt to find an excuse", he stressed.

Pertaining to the coming EU-Western Balkans summit in Thessaloniki this May, Poposki said it would be an opportunity to see how much is the current EU Presidency holder prepared to observe international law.

"The most significant test at this time is to see if the host can turn words into practice. The path is well-traced by the ICJ and international law", he added.

With regards to media reports that mediator Nimetz would bring a new name proposal following the elections in Macedonia and Greece, Minister Poposki said there was nothing specific at this time.

"We have heard these stories for a long time. What is truly important is to observe the obligations determined by the ICJ, the most competent institution regarding this issue", underlined FM Poposki.