Skopje, 3 July 2026 (MIA) - Equipment worth EUR 40 million, procured through the European Peace Facility (EPF), was presented in the Skopje-based Ilinden army barracks on Friday.

European Union Ambassador Michalis Rokas said the equipment is a tangible result from the partnership between the EU and North Macedonia, especially after the signing of the Security and Defense Partnership in 2024.

"The EPF reflects the increasing cooperation in the fields of security and defense between the European Union and North Macedonia. We are seeing the results of this partnership, not only in equipment but training as well. We have secured EUR 38 million and this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship," said Ambassador Rokas.

Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski said the promotion included the first batch of the equipment that has arrived in the country.

"The EPF is providing three packages totalling EUR 40 million, and we also expect the signing of a fourth one. We are currently in talks and I leave it to the EU officials to give the answer on this," said Misajlovski.

He added the equipment is an EU grant related to the Common Security and Defense Policy, participation in EU-led missions, and continued communication.

On the new Strykers and Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), the Defense Minister said they are set to arrive in the Thessaloniki port on Monday, with a further 20-30 days needed to get them into operation.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski thanked the EU for the donation and for recognizing the quality and commitment of the Macedonian Army as an integral part of NATO.

The PM said the Government remains committed to meeting the NATO objectives, noting that the country is currently allocating four percent of the GDP for defense purposes.

"We will try to maintain this percentage in the coming years, and this will be a challenge, but our priority is to invest in the Macedonian Army and make it more competitive," said Mickoski.

Photo: MIA