Skopje, 4 July 2024 (MIA) - Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski and Public Security Bureau Director Aleksandar Janev met Thursday with EU Ambassador David Geer.

Minister Toshkovski thanked for the support and cooperation during the technical government and for the continuous support that our country, but also the Ministry of Interior, receive for the implementation of reforms and modernization of institutions, the Ministry of Interior said in a press release.

"Toshkovski is confident that EU's cooperation and support in the coming period will only increase, especially regarding security. He also presented the main priorities of the Ministry, for which EU's expertise will be needed in aligning with the standards, with the ultimate goal of becoming part of the big European family as soon as possible," the press release reads.

Janev highlighted the bureau's current projects within the framework of existing ones and use of EU funds, reforms planned, adding that focus will be put on potential abuse of EU funds in the country and subsequent investigations.

Ambassador Geer highlighted ongoing projects and the support the country receives from EU for strengthening the ministry’s capacities, especially regarding illegal migration, fight against organized crime, and pointed out the challenges that we will have to focus on in the future in order to align with EU standards. He also gives his support for the reform process and highlighted the possibility of support from the EU system for dealing with possible forest fires during the summer. ssh/sk/

Photo: Interior Ministry