Skopje, 4 June 2022 (MIA) — North Macedonia stands firmly with NATO allies in dealing with geopolitical challenges and preventing security crises that threaten world peace, stability and prosperity, according to Minister of Defense Slavjanka Petrovska at a meeting with US Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin H. Kahl. According to the Ministry of Defense, Minister Petrovska said the new security reality was a call for an even stronger alliance and a more expedient and efficient integration of the Western Balkans into European and Euro-Atlantic structures. North Macedonia's defense minister also reviewed the country's increased national defense budget, a third of which she said was set aside for modernization and procurement of new equipment – and of American-made armored personnel carriers in particular. “We expect the first delivery of six new light armored personnel carriers in the middle of summer. They and the other transporters being delivered will change the face of our Army, which is becoming stronger, more modern, and better prepared to protect collective security with each passing day,” Petrovska said. She added that the United States of America had made a large contribution to the Army’s progress and expressed thanks and confidence that bilateral cooperation would continue. Under Secretary of Defense Kahl said the United States supports North Macedonia’s defense reforms, which show the country’s commitment as strategic partners to the US both through the Strategic Dialogue and within NATO. Petrovska had several meetings at the Pentagon, including with US National Guard Bureau chief Daniel Hokanson, Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, and Under Secretary of the Army Gabe Camarillo. mr/