Skopje, 10 June 2023 (MIA) - Defense Minister Slavjanka Petrovska addressed Friday a ceremony observing the 30-year partnership of North Macedonia's Army and the Vermont National Guard (VNG).

"Three decades ago, we were brought together by our vision for unity and cooperation, as well as our common values. Over the past 30 years, we have posted impressive results, including over 350 activities, crowned by our joint operations in the Afghanistan mission. We also witnessed the transformational power of cooperation - sharing of knowledge, expertise and resources that lead to innovative solutions with a long-term effect," said Minister Petrovska.

Petrovska and Vermont Governor Phil Scott also signed a formal document that reflects the 30-year partnership and commitment of the Army and VNG over the future joint activities, the Ministry of Defense said in a press release.

Focusing on the future opportunities, the Defense Minister said agility is required amid today's complex challenges, as well as adaptation to changes and joint efforts in finding solutions that strengthen the collective security.

"Entering this new stage of our partnership, we must be bold and ambitious in our goals. Achievements over the past 30 years represent an example of our resilience and collective capacities. Now is the time to be more determined and move boundaries of what we can achieve together," noted Petrovska.

She thanked VNG Adjutant General, Major-General Gregory Knight, Army Chief of Staff, Lieutenant-General Vasko Gjurchinovski, and their predecessors for the commitment in the partnership development, while also recognizing Army and VNG troops for their professionalism and commitment in shaping the mutual collaboration.

Governor Scott said the armies have jointly collaborated a lot over the years - at exercises in both countries, through humanitarian work and joint operations in Afghanistan.

"Their shared experiences and the commitment of defense leaders were of exceptional importance for the success of this partnership, helping us to build these strong ties. North Macedonia's NATO accession as its 30th ally is one of the success along the way, making us even closer," said Scott.

General Gjurchinovski expressed gratitude for the VNG's 30-year-long support, adding that North Macedonia's Army is fully committed to even stronger development of the cooperation.

In a separate meeting, Minister Petrovska and Governor Scott reaffirmed the political support for the continued development of the partnership between the two armed forces.

"By enhancing the national capacities, the Army's strengthening and building true friendships, we are reflecting the essence of this partnership," said Petrovska, while adding that cooperation would continue to develop in the fields of crisis management, cyber-defense and other sectors.

Photo: Ministry of Defense