Skopje, 28 March 2025 (MIA) - Chief of the Army General Staff, Major General Sashko Lafchiski said Friday that the fifth anniversary of the country's NATO accession not only demonstrates commitment to collective security, but also reflects unwavering commitment to democratic values, freedom, and stability.

Five years ago, said Lafchiski, the country fulfilled one of its most important strategic goals - NATO membership, and the path was not easy at all. Today, added the Chief of the Army General Staff, commitment, hard and dedicated work is easily recognizable.

"Our soldiers proudly carry the Macedonian flag as part of the deployed troops to NATO's eastern flank in Romania, Bulgaria and Latvia. Army members deployed to the KFOR mission in Kosovo, together with other NATO member states, daily contribute to regional security, stability and peace. As part of the most powerful military family, standing shoulder to shoulder with our allies, we are ready to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries in accordance with the Alliance's concept of deterrence and defence," Lafchiski said. 

Over the past five years, he noted, we have managed to significantly improve the Army's capabilities. 

"In addition, we managed to set future priorities and identify challenges for the coming period, a period in which we should successfully complete the transformation, modernization and equipping of the Army. A period in which we must highlight our strengths, address our challenges and prepare for the changing platform of global challenges in the 21st century. Our goal continues to be the creation of a modern, mobile and technologically advanced Army," said the Chief of the Army General Staff.  

According to him, NATO membership is a guarantee of peace and stability in the country, as well as a basis for progress and a symbol of commitment. May this anniversary, Lafchiski added, be a reminder that we are stronger together. 

Extending heartfelt condolences and honouring the victims in the Kochani tragedy, Lafchiski said the loss is an immense pain for the families, loved ones and the entire nation. He wished the injured a speedy recovery and the strength to move forward, stressing that they are not alone and that their struggle is our struggle.

"In these difficult times, we saw hope, we saw heroes, young people who showed unprecedented courage, saving lives by sacrificing their own lives. We saw quick response and impeccable coordination between institutions, we saw that the common good is much greater than individual interest. The power of alliance, friendship and good neighbourliness was demonstrated in action. In the most difficult moments after the tragedy, we saw how the region and the entire continent mobilized in selfless support, we saw in action what NATO means in its original form expressed through selfless support through member states," Lafchiski said extending deep gratitude. 

The President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Gordana Siljanovska Davkova, Defence Minister Vlado Misajlovski, and Admiral Stuart Munsch, Commander of the Allied Joint Force Command in Naples, also addressed Friday's event marking the 5th anniversary of North Macedonia's NATO membership.   

Photo: MIA