New president for Macedonia

Ruling Party candidate Gjorge Ivanov has been elected the new president of Macedonia after victory in the country’s presidential run-off.

International observers said the vote met most democratic standards. Macedonia wanted to impress the European Union and NATO with its ability to conduct a free and fair election after fraud and violence, including one death, marred parliamentary polls last year. It is good news for the Balkan country as it works towards realising its dreams of becoming a member of both blocs. Ivanov made it clear that he wants to resolve the name issue that has soured relations with neighbour, Greece. The Greeks have blocked Macedonia’s application for NATO membership in a 17-year-old dispute over Macedonia’s name, which it shares with a northern Greek province.More about: Macedonia

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