Skopje, 24 January 2024 (MIA) - Security and defence is the basis for development of any society. In no case it is allowed that security and defence be topical only in crisis situations, Minister of Interior Oliver Spasovski told a panel  entitled "Republic of North Macedonia - secure NATO member with European future" as part of the annual conference "A Year of European Opportunities". 

He noted that going back to the period between 2015 and 2017, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) saw the historically lowest trust among the citizens - amounting to about 23 percent. He also mentioned among other the serious scandal of wiretapping of more than 22,000 of citizens, which is a serious human rights abuse. 

"The MoI was one of the most closed institutions in the country. These are parameters through which we can assess whether reform was necessary and what has been done in the period in the meantime," Spasovski said, pointing out that the Ministry has ended 2023 with EUR 17 million invested in 80 reconstructed facilities and EUR 13 million for equipment and uniforms, and a 35 percent pay rise. 

He noted that reconstruction works in MoI's Administrative Services based in MTV have been launched, as well as basic preparations for the start of activities in the Training Center in Idrizovo.

"In addition to reconstruction, this year we also have two new facilities, in addition to the already functional ICT Center in Prilep, namely - the most state-of-the-art Forensic Laboratory in the Balkans, within the Department of Forensic Investigations and the new Police Station in Aerodrom," said Spasovski. 

MoI, he added, is part of the interoperability system, a completely changed communication system in the Ministry.

Recently, he said, with the medical equipment provided for one of the aircraft, the Aviation Units can transport patients by air, exclusively in the interest of the citizens, "by which we continue to make history".

Spasovski also noted among other that the improvement of the social status of MoI employees has continued with wage increases, allowances and bonuses, with the single goal of creating a satisfied and motivated police force that guarantees the safety of citizens.

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