North Macedonia’s Prime Minister on Friday dismissed as implausible media reports that Greek diplomats intervened to prevent the use of the name “Macedonia” in a speech by U.S. First Lady .
The comments came after Greek media reported that the Greek embassy in Washington had taken diplomatic steps to ensure the term “North Macedonia” was used during an event at the .
“Can anyone really believe that the speech of the First Lady of the United States is reviewed by a diplomatic representative before being delivered publicly? I do not believe that,” Mickoski said in response to a journalist’s question.
He added that if such a scenario were true, it would point to “a serious problem” in U.S. security protocols.
“From my experience, it is very difficult, if not impossible, for an external actor to gain access to the First Lady’s speech before it is delivered,” he said, suggesting the reports were exaggerated for media attention.
According to Greek media, Ambassador was informed in advance about the contents of Trump’s speech and intervened to ensure the country was referred to by its constitutional name, “North Macedonia,” in line with international agreements.
Some reports said Trump had initially been expected to greet the prime minister’s wife, , with the phrase “Welcome, Macedonia” at a gathering attended by representatives from 45 countries, but that wording was changed following the alleged intervention.
Greek outlet Greek Reporter described the move as a corrective measure aimed at upholding the terms of the , which resolved a decades-long dispute over the country’s name.
Greek diplomatic sources were cited as saying that using “Macedonia” alone would disregard international agreements and could create regional confusion related to Greece’s cultural identity.
The event in question was a two-day summit in Washington, titled “Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit,” hosted by Melania Trump. It brought together representatives from 45 countries and more than 20 leading technology companies to promote global cooperation on education, technology and children’s well-being in the digital age.
Rozi Mickoska, the PM wife, attended the summit as part of North Macedonia’s delegation.