Following the reactions and denials of the Commission on historical and educational issues between North Macedonia and Bulgaria and Minister Bujar Osmani in regards to the announcement of Commission member Prof. Vancho Gjorgjiev PhD about his resignation, the Government also came out with a denial.

The Government states that it has not interfered for a single moment, or had any political influence over the work of the Joint multidisciplinary expert commission on historical and educational issues of North Macedonia and Bulgaria and that “on the contrary” it has always supported their work, as scientists who have by themselves, together, the two sides, determined their own principles of work”.

– We categorically deny any insinuation that there has been any influence on the decision of Professor Vanco Gjorgjiev to stop his engagement as member of the Commission by the Government or any of its institutions. Starting from the principle of complete independence and freedom of the work of the Commission, each member of our part of the Commission has the right to make a decision regarding further participation, indicates the Government press service.

The statement adds that Professor Vanco Gjorgjiev just a week ago “signed voluntarily the agreement for continuation of his engagement as member of the Commission”.

– We consider that with the tone, insinuations and timing chosen to place such untruths, Professor Vanco Gjorgjiev has allowed himself to compromise his own scientific integrity and to place political messages that have nothing to do with the reality and the work of the Joint multidisciplinary expert commission on historical and education issues of North Macedonia and Bulgaria, adds the Government in the statement.

They indicate that with this statement they point out the facts and that they respect the decision of Prof. Gjorgjiev and thank him for his engagement until now.

Translation: N. Cvetkovska