UN mediator Matthew Nimetz’s proposal on the Macedonia name dispute does not bode well for Greek interests. He has adopted the composite name approach which, moreover, differs only slightly from FYROM’s constitutional name.

Unfortunately, critics of Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis’s policy have so far been vindicated. Her decision to make concessions early in the process have resulted in the pressure being shifted onto Athens. Greece also failed to gain anything from US-mediated talks. Instead of some acknowledgement of Athens’s good will, Greece has come away with a proposal that ignores its interests entirely. The premier had made it clear that Greece will accept one name for every use. This should be the line officially, unofficially and behind the scenes. In addition, it would be a big mistake if America continued to be involved in negotiations in Bucharest, as it is clear that the US is interested in putting pressure only on Athens, not Skopje. What is certain is that the process still hides many more traps than the ones Greek foreign policy has already fallen into.