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The referendum is non-binding, meaning the government could take the outcome as a fair reflection of public opinion regardless of turnout. Under the country’s constitution, a binding referendum would need a minimum turnout of 50 per cent.

State Electoral Commission head Oliver Rekoski said turnout at 1 p.m., six hours before the polls close, stood at 16 per cent.

Supporters of the deal, led by Prime Minister Zoran Zaev, have focused on the vote being the lynchpin of the country’s future prosperity, the key to its ability to join NATO and, eventually, the EU. It would be a major step for a country that less than two decades ago almost descended into civil war, when some in its ethnic Albanian minority took up arms against the government, seeking greater rights.

Photo by Thanassis Stavrakis/AP Photo

Zaev cast his ballot in the southeastern town of Strumica and urged his fellow citizens to ensure a strong turnout.

“I invite everyone to come out and make this serious decision for the future of our country, for future generations,” Zaev said. “I expect a massive vote, a huge turnout to confirm the multiethnic nature of this country and the political unity of this country.”

Djose Tanevski was among the early voters in Skopje, the capital.

“I came here because of the future of our children, who should have a decent life, a life in a lovely country, which will become a member of the European Union and NATO,” he said.

But others had no intention of voting.

“I’m disappointed with all that is happening with Macedonia,” said 34-year-old Bojan Krstevski. “I cannot give up my Macedonian identity. I don’t want to be North Macedonian.”