Reactions in Australia to the abolition of the Vergina Sun

The ban on the use of the symbol of the Vergina Sun in northern Macedonia came into force earlier this week under the Prespa Agreement. However, reactions have arisen to the community here, which comes from that country, and which community, or part of it, describes the deal as shameful.

Source: Macedonia365

The Prespa Agreement highlights that the Vergina Sun is part of ancient Greek history and culture.

The symbol of the Vergina Sun has long been used by the Slavic diaspora on all continents, even here in Australia.

Due to this ban and the Prespa agreement in general, the "Council of the Macedonian Community of Melbourne and Victoria" has issued a statement stating that it will not host this year's 8th annual event, the anniversary of the independence of Northern Macedonia.

At the same time, an event held on Tuesday in Melbourne of the community of Northern Macedonia had a vibrant style and color of irredentism.

On the occasion of the anniversary of the Ilinden Uprising, the event had strong support elements, with the use of a projector to display alienated maps with "Greater Macedonia" (photo) and flags with the Vergina Sun.

O χάρτης της «Μεγάλης Μακεδονίας», σε εκδήλωση της παροικίας της Βόρειας Μακεδονίας στην Μελβούρνη Source: Supplied

This event, and especially the use of redeemable maps and symbols, sparked the reaction of the president of the Panmacedonian Association of Western Australian.

Mr. Paul Afkos, said that the North Macedonian community in Australia should respect the Prespa Agreement, while also express his opposition in regard of the name of the citizens of Northern Macedonia, that now called as Macedonians.