Skopje, 11 July 2022 (MIA) – Minister of Interior Oliver Spasovski has urged citizens and political stakeholders to hold peaceful and democratic protests, saying stability, security and peace are priceless. Minister Spasovski told TV21 that political leaders and parties must be aware of their responsibility. “Attack on a police officer is an attack on the state. Police officers are here to protect the order, peace and security. I call on the citizens and the political stakeholders to hold peaceful democratic protests, shedding a positive light on the country,” says Spasovski. According to him, the methodology of the activities leading up to the 27 April 2017 events and the current developments are identical, while adding that the life of VMRO-DPMNE leader Hristijan Mickoski was neither in danger nor the recent incident at the Mavrovka mall was directed at him. Asked about the country’s security, he says it is safe and stable, without any indications of major security breaches. “Our geostrategic position benefits our connections with the rest of the world but also provides possibilities for security breaches. The main migration routes pass through here, many corridors intertwine but also many interests. Therefore, the challenge is enormous,” says Spasovski. On the recent statement of President Stevo Pendarovski over a dozen of people from abroad involved in local events, the MoI says there is a specific number that cannot be shared with the public. “The competent services are undertaking all measures to maintain peace and security. This is the most important thing for citizens,” notes Spasovski. With regards to hybrid threats, he says they are used by those who don’t want North Macedonia to realize its strategic interests and move along the path of prosperity and integration. “We are all tasked with responding to hybrid threats. One of these threats is spreading and distributing fake news and it is key to tackle this challenge,” says Spasovski.