Skopje, 20 December 2023 (MIA) - Albanian Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Major General Arben Kingji, is paying an official visit to North Macedonia, meeting with host, Lieutenant General Vasko Gjurchinovski and Deputy Defense Minister Tiron Jajaga.

Generals Gjurchinovski and Kingji discussed bilateral cooperation between the two NATO armies, noting that collaboration has been excellent and contributing to the security and stability in the region and beyond, the Ministry of Defense said in a press release.

Gjurchinovski briefed Kingji on the Army's transformation process and planned activities in meeting the NATO capabilities. Interlocutors also referred to the Alliance's operations that the two countries take part in, opportunities for enhancement of cooperation by using the capacities for training and military education, as well as joint exercises.

Deputy Minister Jajaga told General Kingji these high-level meetings represent an excellent opportunity to enhance cooperation and reaffirm the strong partnership between North Macedonia and Albania.

"Both countries are focused on strengthening peace and security in the region, both through their membership in regional initiatives (A5, SEDM, SEEBRIG) and participation in peacekeeping operations (KFOR, EUFOR-ALTHEA)," said Jajaga.

He added that North Macedonia would continue to support Ukraine in the right to defend its independence and sovereignty from the Russian aggression.

General Kingji highlighted the mutual military cooperation as a model that other allies should follow.

"We share the same perspectives for the region and the same positions as NATO allies. I am pleased we discussed regional cooperation, especially in the context of crisis management," added Kingji.

During the visit, General Kingji is scheduled to meet with President Stevo Pendarovski, as well as visit the Operations Command and the Tetovo-based army barracks.

Photo: Ministry of Defense, Army General Staff