Skopje, 12 July 2024 (MIA) – Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Timcho Mucunski was part of a government delegation, led by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, that took part in the NATO Summit, held on July 9-11 in Washington. 

Current security challenges, with an accent on support for Ukraine, strengthening of the NATO defense and deterrence, and ways to improve the cooperation with the Indo-Pacific partners was the focal point, said the Foreign Ministry.

“The allies welcomed the target of 2 percent of the GDP for defense investments met by 23 NATO members, including North Macedonia. The country this year surpassed the target and is expected to increase in the period to come. By doing so, we are demonstrating that we are a credible NATO member, which contributes to strengthening collective security,” said the press release. 

Strong and unwavering support for Ukraine was reaffirmed at the summit, said MFA, calling the Russian aggression a blatant violation of the international order based on rules. 

“A package for practical support for Ukraine was approved as a pledge for long-term security assistance for the country. North Macedonia’s position remains firm supporting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine and securing aid for the Ukrainian people as long as it is necessary,” said the press release. 

At the meetings, the need to strengthen the cooperation between NATO and the EU in the Western Balkan countries was noted, which is a guarantee for the regional and overall transatlantic security. Resuming the NATO open door policy and the EU enlargement is the best tool to achieve permanent peace and to guarantee the democratic processes of in our region. 

“The NATO Summit presented an excellent opportunity to examine the perspectives for deepening the cooperation with the Indo-Pacific countries, which is key in the changed geopolitical context. Strengthening the ties with Australia, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand will contribute to reinforce the Alliance and provide a strong and decisive response to growing challenges arising from the cooperation between authoritarian actors,” said the MFA.

Mucunski in Washington held several meetings. After completing his Washington visit, Mucunski will travel to New York for a meeting with members of the Macedonian diaspora and talks aimed at strengthening the bilateral relations and promoting the country as an attractive destination for foreign investments. 

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade