Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis has slammed Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras following news of a resolution over the decades-long name dispute with the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM).
Following ongoing talks, Tsipras and his counterpart Zoran Zaev finally agreed on the name ‘Republic of North Macedonia’, an outcome which Theodorakis has branded a historic defeat for Greece.
In an official statement released by the outspoken figure, he said he believes that the resolution goes against the stance held by the majority of Greeks, adding that it would have a long term impact on the country by stigmatising it.
Meanwhile he also expressed fear for the “dangers that lie ahead” as a result.
Below is a translation of Theodorakis’ complete official statement:
“Our country drew on an act of historical defeat with unpredictable consequences at the expense of our country and our people,” wrote the 92-year-old.
“At the same time, the will of the overwhelming majority of the Greek people was stomped on. Tsipras, the so-called leftist is defending his own personal interest. In this way Greece and the Greek people are taking part in his downfall. After this big ‘YES’ by Mr Tsipras, what hurts the most is not only the dangers that lie ahead of us, but above all the great shame that will stigmatise us forever.”
