The foundations have been laid for intensifying the defense cooperation between the two countries - NATO allies, Northern Macedonia and Slovakia, which will develop both the national and the capacities of the Alliance for Collective Defense. The full membership of Northern Macedonia in the Alliance has strengthened regional security, and now it is necessary to make the long-awaited and well-deserved step forward in the European integration of the Western Balkan countries. That is the conclusion of today's meeting in Bratislava with Defense Minister Radmila Sekerinska and her Slovak counterpart, Jaroslav Nad.

Minister Sekerinska stressed that the country's membership in the Alliance is a benefit for the security of the entire region. She said that the beginning of the accession process for Northern Macedonia's membership in the Union will strengthen European values ​​and allow the country and the region to continue to develop in accordance with European values, and at the same time put an end to attempts for other non-European influences.

Minister Nad expressed open and clear support for the start of accession negotiations for Northern Macedonia, indicating that the country has delivered what it promised and that a positive decision of the European Union will confirm the credibility of the accession process.

In the context of defense cooperation, Ministers Sekerinska and Nad pointed out the openness of both countries for its intensification, given that both Northern Macedonia and Slovakia firmly believe that NATO unity, mutual support in the development of defense capabilities and a strong commitment to collective defense are the foundations. to maintain security and prosperity in the Euro-Atlantic area.