Skopje, 29 June 2026 (MIA) – The word is changing fast. Which is why NATO must remain not only strong, but also agile and prepared for swift reaction with a strategic vision and implementation processes that will correspond with the tempo and complexity of the threats we’re facing, Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi said in a speech at the Parliamentary Summit of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, taking place Sunday and Monday in Istanbul, Türkiye.

In today’s world, Gashi said, filled with uncertainty, disinformation and geopolitical turbulences, the role of the assemblies is more important than ever. The Ankara Summit, he added, must send a strong political message – NATO is united, the transatlantic bond remains strong and Article 5 remains the foundation of our collective security.

“North Macedonia is an ally member of NATO, located in a strategically sensitive region. It is of key importance for investments in the Western Balkans to continue through further enlargement, strengthening of partnerships and strengthening of security cooperation initiatives,” said Gashi.

North Macedonia, he stressed, continues to support Ukraine and Middle East developments have been affecting international peace and security, energy markets and humanitarian conditions. “Diplomatic efforts for de-escalation and promotion of dialogue must continue,” Gashi urged. 

The Gashi-led delegation includes MP Dragan Kovachki, head of North Macedonia’s Parliament Delegation to NATO Parliamentary Assembly, and Ibush Jusufi, deputy secretary general of the assembly, Parliament’s press service said. 

The Parliamentary Summit of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, which brings together heads of parliament of NATO member countries as well as head of parliamentary delegations of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, takes place ahead of the NATO Summit, set to take place next week in Ankara. 

Speaking at the summit, NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska said that the security threats and incidents that have been successfully prevented is a proof that NATO is strong defending its own territory. We have to make sure that NATO defence will remain strong, she said expressing expectations that all allies will arrive at the NATO Summit in Ankara with real plans to meet the commitment of five percent of GDP to be invested in defence. 

In their addresses, the presidents of parliaments and the representatives of the parliaments of NATO allies reaffirmed their support for Ukraine.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke at a formal lunch saying that the holding of the Summit of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly amid challenging security is a symbol of cooperation and alliance. 

Photo: Parliament