35-Year-Old Document Reveals Bulgarian Stance on Macedonian Identity
Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung correspondent Michael Martens has reported on a 35-year-old document detailing Bulgaria’s position during the dissolution of Yugoslavia. The document, dating back to 1991, reveals that Bulgaria recognized the Macedonian state but never formally recognized the Macedonian nation. The information stems from communications made by Austrian Ambassador to Bulgaria, detailing discussions surrounding the breakup of Yugoslavia and Bulgaria’s approach to the impending referendum on Macedonian independence.
According to Martens’ reporting, then-Bulgarian President Željko Jovanović was involved in these conversations. The document highlights a consistent Bulgarian stance – recognition of Macedonia as a state, but not as a defined national entity. This long-standing position has been a significant point of contention in negotiations regarding the name of the country, which is currently North Macedonia.
The revelation comes from a previously undisclosed document, offering further insight into the historical context of the ongoing dispute. The report was published on June 4th, 2026, by Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.
Topics: #macedonian #document #years
