On November 16 (Fri), the Parliament of the Former Republic of Macedonia adopted the amendment of the constitution, on the basis of the framework agreement for resolving the Macedonian issue, after weeks of difficulties. Japan welcomes this amendment as important progress toward realizing a democratic and multiethnic society on the basis of political dialogue and highly appreciates the efforts of the people that achieved the present amendment.

Japan strongly hopes that the parties concerned will continue to implement the framework agreement faithfully and will make further efforts to build a stable nation based on harmony among ethnic groups.

Japan intends to continue support of the efforts to resolve the issue, together with the international community.

Today, Foreign Minister Makiko Tanaka has sent a message to Macedonian Foreign Minister, Ms. Ilinka Mitreva, commending Macedonian efforts that have led to the amendment of the constitution, and has sent another message to Mr. Solana, High Representative of CFSP of EU, paying respect to his efforts for peace of the country.