Skopje, 28 March 2025 (MIA) – Defence Minister Vlado Misajlovski, speaking at Friday’s ceremony at Ilinden barracks in Skopje, marking the 5th anniversary of North Macedonia's NATO membership, stressed the importance of unity both within the Army and in the Alliance, but also among the citizens. He called for building a society that evolves in all aspects and adapts to new challenges, with the goal of providing a better, safer and higher-quality life for all citizens.

Referring to the recent fire tragedy in Kochani, Misajlovski said that we are experiencing one of the most difficult periods since gaining independence. He noted that today is not just about marking this anniversary, but also about reaffirming unity and mutual support.

“There are no words of comfort for those who have lost their loved ones, and I extend my deepest condolences to them. We are all facing and struggling with mixed feelings and emotions, and it is truly difficult to find the right words to express the significance of a day like this, as we mark the 5th anniversary of North Macedonia’s NATO membership. Today, we are not only marking this anniversary, but also celebrating our unity and mutual support. Words of comfort, and even more so, the willingness to help, are what make us - 32 NATO countries - a united force, ready to stand by each and every member state. In the early morning hours of that tragic Sunday and in the days that followed, I spoke with many ambassadors of NATO member states and several of my fellow defence ministers. What I heard from them was, ‘We stand with you’ and ‘How can we assist?’”, Misajlovski said.

He pointed out that NATO is not only a military-political alliance or an organization that protects the borders of its member states but also a partnership that, despite differing opinions on many topics, is bound by a shared commitment to solidarity and mutual care.

“This is the Alliance’s greatest strength—the pillar that holds us upright even in the most challenging moments of life. That is where our collective power lies! I wholeheartedly thank each and every one of them and want to assure them that their support will never be forgotten by me or the citizens of North Macedonia. But I also want to highlight that we will forever remember the professionalism and dedication of every Army member and all others who acted swiftly and wholeheartedly to help their fellow citizens. Each member of the General Staff, the Ministry of Defence and 146 personnel who were engaged in assisting the institutions and citizens had to overcome their own emotions and grief while responding to their tasks with the highest level of professionalism. And every time we mention the word ‘hero,’ we should remember that Macedonia has many heroes in its history – those who gave their lives, as well as heroes who are with us every day, always ready to help, including the members of the Macedonian Army,” Misajlovski stated.

He also stressed the need for changes that respect the laws and will help us build a functional, just and modern society.

“May the memory of our heroes, those who tragically lost their lives, and all those who have contributed to Macedonia lead us toward real change. The system can only be transformed if each of us genuinely contributes by respecting every rule. This is the love for our homeland, to love the country and honour every fellow citizen. We face serious challenges ahead that we can and must overcome together, for the good of all of us. Let us turn the unity within the Army and the Alliance into unity among the citizens, and build a society that will grow in all aspects and adjust to new challenges with a single goal: a better, safer, and higher-quality life for all citizens,” Misajlovski noted.

He highlighted that NATO membership is not only a guarantee but also a pillar for the stability of the Macedonian economy. This stability provides opportunities for foreign direct investments and, even more importantly, provides Macedonian companies with access to the NATO market, which is valued at over €10 billion annually.

Defence Minister Misajlovski assessed that with NATO membership, we have reinforced our security, while also contributing with our capabilities to strengthen regional and collective security. He noted that among our 31 allied countries, we have significant support in the development of the armed forces. We are developing together, Misajlovski said, because NATO signifies precisely that - unity in force, moving toward a strong and secure Alliance.

“We are making investments in Macedonian defence, modernizing our Army at a fast pace, and, along with our allies, engaging in various training exercises both at home and abroad, thereby strengthening our interoperability, which is key, particularly in peacekeeping operations. We have much to learn, but also a great deal to offer. Let’s protect Macedonia, care for the security and stability of the region and beyond, because that is the only way forward, for a better and more prosperous future,” Misajlovski said.

The President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Gordana Siljanovska Davkova, Chief of the Army General Staff, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, and Admiral Stuart Munsch, Commander of the Allied Joint Force Command in Naples will address the event.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, members of the government, and representatives of the military-diplomatic corps are also expected to attend the event, along with other guests.

Following the addresses, Army members will conduct demonstration exercises.

Photo: MIA