First Dialogue on Security and Defense between the European Union and Macedonia

Today, as part of an official visit by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaya Calas, the first Dialogue on Security and Defense between the European Union and Macedonia was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade as part of the November 2024 Security and Defense Partnership and Defense Partnership.

The meeting was officially opened by Foreign Minister and Foreign Trade, Timco Mucunski, EU High Representative Kaya Calas, and Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski addressed.

In his address, Minister Mucunski stressed the strong determination and commitment of the state to be a trusted EU and NATO partner in tackling security challenges in the complex geopolitical environment.

– As a state, we remain fully harmonized with the European Union’s common foreign and security policy. Our 100 percent compliance is not only a technical obligation, but also a clear reflection of our strategic orientation and shared values. We support all existing efforts to achieve fair and lasting peace in Europe, remaining consistent in sharing a common burden by continuing overall support for Ukraine, including in the military and defense aspect – Minister Mucunski said.

Through open and constructive dialogue, both sides exchanged views on regional security issues and the war in Ukraine. The importance of regional stability and the role of Northern Macedonia, as a NATO member and EU candidate, was emphasized in the strengthening of European security architecture.

At the meeting, the state -related activities in missions and operations within the common security and defense policy were cut, as well as ongoing cyber and hybrid threats, strategic communication, fighting against misinformation and foreign influences, as well as women’s participation in these processes.

In addition, the Macedonian side has expressed strong interest in deepening the EU co -operation in defense initiatives, including through the European Defense Agency (EDA), Permanent Structural Cooperation (PESCO), military mobility and the forthcoming European Defense Book. As a NATO member state, the state is clearly positioned to strengthen EU -NATO co -operation in the current security environment.

At the opening of the first dialogue within the Security and Defense Partnership MK – EU, Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski emphasized the commitment of the European Union that recognized our sincere commitment and commitment to preserving the stability, peace and security of the region and beyond. He expressed gratitude for the support of the Union for the Macedonian Army.

« We currently have the largest budget for defense, over 30 percent are intended for modernization of the army, and this equipment will further affect the development of the capabilities and capacity of the defense capacities, » Misajlovski said.

This first Dialogue on Security and Defense between Macedonia and the European Union marked the beginning of regular political and expert consultations, which will enable monitoring of the implementation of the partnership and opening new opportunities for cooperation in the interest of peace, stability and security of the citizens.