Skopje, 8 October 2024 (MIA) - Minister of Interior Panche Toshkovski met Tuesday with the new Ambassador of the European Union, Michalis Rokas.

Toshkovski congratulated the Ambassador on his new post, expressing confidence that the excellent cooperation and friendly relations will continue, as with all previous EU Ambassadors to the country, the Ministry of Interior said in a press release. 

"The European Union is our most important partner. With the support through structural funds, IPA projects and finally, through the Growth Plan, the country can move forward in this final stage of our path towards full European integration. We saw the solidarity in action this summer. Gratitude to the EU and its member states for the assistance they provided to us in dealing with the wildfires that hit the country this summer. Without their help, the loss and damage across the country would have been immeasurable," Minister Toshkovski pointed out. 

Ambassador Rokas, adds the press release, highlighted ongoing projects and support from the EU in terms of strengthening the capacities of the Ministry of Interior, especially in the area of ​​illegal migration, the fight against organized crime and high corruption, underlining the challenges the country needs to focus on in order to get closer to the European standards. 

"Rokas expressed his support for the reform processes and the Ministry's priorities in the fight against organized crime and all types of crime and corruption, and in ensuring the safety of all citizens and society by the Ministry of Interior," reads the press release. 

Photo: MoI