(ANSA) - BRUSSELS, OCT 17 - In an interview with the German edition of Euractive, the European Commissioner for Enlargement, Johannes Hahn, appealed to the leaders of the Macedonian Conservatives, led by VMRO-DPMNE party, who are currently blocking the approval of the agreement on the new name of Macedonia (Northern Macedonia) at the Macedonian Parliament. "I appeal to the opposition, to exercise its responsibility and support the agreement" with Greece, "in case of failure, they will have to respond to the serious consequences for the citizens", Hahn said.

The right-wing opposition considers the agreement with Athens unconstitutional and harmful to national interests. Since the beginning of this week, a tough clash in Skopje's Parliament is underway. Hahn said that the decision is not a "political parties game". "The future of the country, the prospects for young people, better living conditions for citizens and the necessary reforms to continue on the path of democracy are at stake", EU Commissioner said. The "clear vote" expressed by Macedonian citizens at the referendum on 30th September, "must be taken into consideration" and "accepted without delay", Hahn pointed out. "I am sure that all deputies are aware of the huge importance of this vote", EU Commissioner highlighted.

91.5% of Macedonian citizens who went to the polls last September 30th, voted 'yes' to the new name, but the turnout was low, at around 37%. The green light for the agreement between Skopje and Athens is set by the international community as an indispensable condition for the integration of Macedonia into the EU and NATO. (ANSA).