Brussels, 19 November 2024 (MIA) – Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Timcho Mucunski and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, will sign Tuesday in Brussels a security and defense partnership agreement between the Republic of North Macedonia and the European Union. 

It is expected the partnership agreement to strengthen the country’s resilience and allow joint tackling of security challenges as well as more efficient cooperation in the sphere of security and defense.

The signing of the agreement will take place on the sidelines of the EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting of defense ministers, who will be discussing the bloc’s support for Ukraine and its defense preparedness.

In September, the Council of the EU adopted an assistance measure under the European Peace Facility (EPF) worth €13 million with the aim of strengthening the capacities and capabilities of the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia.

The Assistance Measure will include support on technologies related to intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, electronic warfare and signal intelligence, logistics and engineering equipment, as well as communication and information systems.

The assistance measure will strengthen North Macedonia’s capacities with respect to its participation in the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) operations and missions and other international missions, the Council said in a press release.

“The decision further illustrates the growing association with North Macedonia on security and defence. It reflects the consistent commitment of the partners to enhance their cooperation in this policy area, with a view to a full alignment of North Macedonia with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy,” stated the press release. 

The European Peace Facility was established in March 2021 for the financing of actions under the Common Foreign and Security Policy to prevent conflicts, preserve peace and strengthen international security and stability.

Photo: EEAS