Macedonia can count on Denmark's support for start of accession talks with the EU, it was concluded on Friday during Foreign Minister Nikola Poposki's visit to Copenhagen, where he held separate meetings with Denmark's Minister for European Affairs Nicolai Wammen and Parliament Speaker Mogens Lykketoft, MIA reports.

There is no change in Denmark's basic policy. The country, which takes over the EU presidency on January 1, still champions Western Balkan countries to join the EU.

"Denmark remains committed to the enlargement process. We can count on support for start of EU negotiations. Macedonia's headway both in the European and Euro-Atlantic process will boost the momentum in the entire region, not only in Macedonia. This is of great importance since Denmark as of January 2012 takes over the 6-month EU presidency. During this time, I believe we have a great opportunity to start EU entry talks. It should be upheld by a decision of the Council of EU, where all member countries will have a chance to support the process which is positive for the entire region," FM Poposki stated after holding talks with Wammen and Lykketoft.

It was jointly concluded that Greece's distance away from the name row due to the debt crisis must not block Macedonia's integration bid and hold the country hostage. It will benefit everyone - both Macedonia and Greece, Macedonia's immediate and indirect neighbours as well as the EU.

"Greece's new government will focus on the economy. The debt crisis is a factor commanding all efforts to be made in that area. However, we cannot allow the crisis to be turned into a negative factor hindering Macedonia's integration process. We must provide a wider space for dialogue, which will allow us to make a step forward in our integration process. This also requires a constructive approach to be demonstrated by the southern neighbour," FM Poposki said.

The new government in Greece, he added, has an exceptional opportunity to send a positive signal regarding the matter. "This is not based on wishes, it is an opportunity that could be transformed into a common success."