International recognition of The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's (F.Y.R.O.M.) independence from Yugoslavia in 1991 was delayed by Greece's objection to the new state's use of what it considered a Hellenic name and symbols. Greece finally lifted its trade blockade in 1995, and the two countries agreed to normalize relations, despite continued disagreement over F.Y.R.O.M.'s use of "Macedonia." F.Y.R.O.M.'s large Albanian minority, an ethnic Albanian armed insurgency in F.Y.R.O.M. in 2001, and the status of neighboring Kosovo continue to be sources of ethnic tension.

GeographyCountry name: The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (local: Republika Makedonija). Capital: Skopje. Government type: parliamentary democracy. Independence: 8 September 1991 referendum by registered voters endorsing independence (from Yugoslavia). Administrative divisions: 123 municipalities (opstini, singular - opstina). Terrain: mountainous territory covered with deep basins and valleys; three large lakes, each divided by a frontier line; country bisected by the Vardar River. Total area: 25,333 kmē. Highest point: Golem Korab (Maja e Korabit) 2,753 m. Climate: warm, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall. |


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