Skopje, 15 June 2026 (MIA) — At the opening of the Skopje Security Forum under the theme "Architects of Stability: The Security Identity of the Western Balkans," First Deputy Prime Minister Bekim Sali said that regional security and stability should not be taken for granted and require ongoing investment in democratic institutions, the rule of law, economic growth and regional cooperation. 

According to Sali, the region faces a complex security landscape of traditional and emerging threats. These he said included armed conflicts, geopolitical rivalries, cyberattacks, disinformation, energy insecurity and technological disruptions.

He reiterated that joining the European Union remained the North Macedonia's strategic goal, being the strongest guarantee for long-term stability.

"The EU is not only a political and economic project, but a community based on democratic values, solidarity and collective responsibility," Sali said, adding that progress toward EU membership would strengthen state institutions and boost social resilience.

He also said Western Balkan nations faced common challenges that can only be dealt with effectively through regional cooperation.

The Skopje Security Forum is an important platform to exchange ideas, develop innovative strategies and build the networks of trust needed for effective crisis management, Sali added.

Speaking at the forum, Israeli Ambassador to North Macedonia Vivian Aisen said the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks altered Israel's security strategies and its perception of regional threats.

Aisen said a key lesson from the conflict was that "one should never judge an adversary by one's own values," noting that bad actors operated under entirely different belief systems.

Israel shifted its doctrine to evaluate threats based on an adversary's actual capabilities rather than their presumed intentions, she added, noting that her country was currently facing several active fronts.

The ambassador also highlighted the need to diversify international partnerships, including expanding ties with the Balkans. She also pointed to the challenges on “the media front,” which she said directly impacted global security and public perception. mr/