Skopje, 21 May 2026 (MIA) - Commander of NATO's Joint Force Command (JFC) Naples, Admiral George M. Wikoff, met Thursday with Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski and Army Chief of Staff, Major-General Sashko Lafchiski, as part of his first visit to the Army of North Macedonia.

Minister Misajlovski thanked Admiral Wikoff for the support of the JFC Naples to the Macedonian contingents in the KFOR mission and the multinational forces of NATO's eastern flank, noting that the country is a credible ally and active contributor in the strengthening of NATO's security, the Ministry of Defense said in a press release.

"We are committed to strengthening regional security and the Alliance's collective security, which is proven by the continued contribution of Macedonian troops in KFOR and the multinational forces of NATO's eastern flank," said Misajlovski.

The Minister also referred to military mobility, saying the country is investing in the development of Corridor VIII, a key route linking the Black and Adriatic Seas.

The meeting with General Lafchiski focused on security developments in the region, achievement of NATO's capability goals, opportunities for army exercises in the country, as well as enhancement of the interoperability and further strengthening of cooperation within the Alliance, reads the press release.

Lafchiski highlighted the Army's commitment in maintaining a high level of preparedness and professionalism, along with the active contribution in peacekeeping missions KFOR, ALTHEA and Forward Land Forces.

Admiral Wikoff saluted the professionalism and contribution of the Army and the Ministry of Defense within NATO, voicing support for further enhancement of the partnership and cooperation with the Alliance.

Photo: Ministry of Defense