(ANSA) - BRUSSELS, 24 JAN - "The college of European commissioners voted unanimously in favor of" the Prespa agreement between Athens and Skopje for the new name of Macedonia, "our position is clear, what matters now is only the vote of the Hellenic Parliament", EU Commission spokesperson, Margaritis Schinas, said today trying to defuse the situation after recent statements by EU Commissioner for Migration Dimitris Avramopoulos against the deal. Yesterday, the Greek Commissioner described the name deal as "problematic," arguing it is "not balanced", and in favor of Skopje.

"The EU's position is well known and was expressed by the President of the EU Commission, the High Representative and the Commissioner for Enlargement", Schinas pointed out, stressing that the Prespa agreement is "important to solve one of the eldest disputes of the region" and "go beyond the past, towards reconciliation, not only for the region but for Europe as a whole".

The delicate vote of the Athens parliament to ratify the agreement is due to be held this evening. (ANSA).