The Summit of Heads of State of Central Europe was opened in Ohrid today with an address by Macedonian President Branko Crvenkovski. The Macedonian president thanked the presidents for their participation in this summit, stressing that Macedonia’s key strategic objectives are integration into NATO and the EU. President Crvenkovski emphasized in his introductory speech that the name dispute was used to block Macedonia’s accession to NATO. He underlined that Macedonia is prepared for a fair resolution, but that it is not prepared to accept anyone’s dictate.

Macedonian Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski also addressed the participants, voicing conviction that the upcoming parliamentary elections would confirm democracy in Macedonia, as well as the country’s readiness to be a member of the Euro-Atlantic organizations.

Turkish President Abdullah Gul noted in his speech that understanding from all sides in the international community is needed for peace and stability in the region.