Skopje, 21 November 2023 (MIA) - NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Wednesday's meeting in Skopje with the leaders of NATO countries from the region will discuss Western Balkans and the wider security issues, such as Russia's war against Ukraine and its activities in the region. Stoltenberg pointed out that the the Western Balkans is essential to the security of Europe.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski will host the meeting with the leaders from Albania, Croatia, Montenegro and Slovenia. Stoltenberg, who is in an official visit to the country, said the meeting demonstrates the value and importance of North Macedonia as NATO member. 

"In the last few days, I have been on a tour of the Western Balkans. I have visited our partners, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia. In Kosovo, I met with NATO's KFOR troops from across the Alliance. And tomorrow, I will meet other leaders from Albania, Croatia, Montenegro, and of course, North Macedonia. I think that demonstrates the value and the importance of North Macedonia and our Alliance that actually you convene, we convene, this important meeting in Skopje tomorrow. You lead by example by demonstrating how people of different ethnic and religious backgrounds can live together and build a country," said Stoltenberg. 

According to him, North Macedonia is proof that with hard work, reform and commitment to the values of the transatlantic community, freedom, democracy and the rule of law, however difficult, progress is always possible. 

He noted that EU membership will further enhance democracy, the rule of law, and social justice, increasing opportunities for all citizens, and especially the young.

"I encourage you to persist as you did with membership of NATO and complete your journey to the heart of the European family of nations. Membership in NATO has paved the way for membership in the European Union for many countries before you. NATO membership is good for North Macedonia. It is also good for NATO. Your Armed Forces make an active contribution to international peace and security," Stoltenberg added. 

He mentioned that North Macedonia immediately joined EU sanctions against Russia, and provided significant military aid to Ukraine. 

"Every day at the NATO headquarters, you take your place as an equal with other Allies, as a valued and trusted member of the transatlantic community. When Yugoslavia broke up with the collapse of communism, your country was unique. It was the only country to gain its independence without a single drop of blood being spilled. And that is a huge achievement. An example for others," Stoltenberg said. 

He noted that North Macedonia is an example of a successful move to ethnic society, demonstrating to the region and to the whole world, that it is possible for different ethnic and religious groups to live together in peace, that there are real alternatives to violence.

Photo: MIA