Greek parliament approves historic Macedonia name deal

A three day debate in Greek Parliament, that ran longer than any other session in recent history, wrapped up the deliberations on the Prespes agreement, culminating in a historic vote in favour of the deal.

153 Members of Parliament voted in favour of the deal, 146 voted against, 1 abstained. 

Under the deal Greece's northern neighbour will rename itself North Macedonia, distinguish its cultural references from the Greek Macedonian heritage and Athens will drop its objections to the country joining NATO.

Parliament speaker Nikos Voutsis hailed the vote as historic. The vote settles a name dispute that has separated the two neighbours for nearly 30 years.

They had imagination, they took the risk, they were ready to sacrifice their own interests for the greater good. Zoran, Alexis – well done! Mission impossible accomplished. #PrespaAgreement@Zoran_Zaev @tsipras_eu

— Donald Tusk (@eucopresident) 25 January 2019

Congratulations my friend @tsipras_eu, together with our peoples we reached a historical victory. Long live the Prespa Agreement! For eternal peace and progress of the Balkans and in Europe! pic.twitter.com/f9aIpMa4Xz

— Зоран Заев (@Zoran_Zaev) 25 January 2019