Greek lawmakers edge toward Prespes deal as issue divides nation

Greek lawmakers began the final steps on Wednesday toward ratifying an historic accord on a name-change for neighboring Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), as a bitter row rumbled with opponents who say it harms Greece's national identity.

Parliament opened a two-day debate on ratifying the so-called Prespes Agreement, a UN mediated deal between Athens and Skopje changing the latter's name to "Republic of North Macedonia."

The deal, aimed at settling a 28-year old dispute between the two countries over the use of the term "Macedonia," has triggered strong opposition among many Greeks, angered at what they see as an attempt by their neighbors to appropriate Greek identity.

Parliament is expected to ratify the name accord as Leftist Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras appears to have secured the support of at least 151 lawmakers in the 300-seat house....