Greek parliament set to back Macedonia's NATO accession
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Greek lawmakers are set to approve Macedonia's NATO accession, ending a process to normalize relations between the two neighbors and anchor the country — renamed North Macedonia — firmly within the western sphere of influence.
Greek opposition parties reject the move, arguing that the name deal, which will end a 27-year dispute, concedes too much to Macedonia. But the left-led government in Athens controls enough seats in parliament to win the vote, expected late Friday.
Greece and the former Yugoslav province — independent since 1991 — struck the historic agreement last summer. Despite strong misgivings from opposition parties and public opinion, both ratified it in parliament.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Greek approval of Macedonia's NATO accession bid is the final step in the deal. Macedonia will then formally implement the name change.