Skopje, 28 September 2023 (MIA) - Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani and British Ambassador to North Macedonia Matthew Lawson signed on Thursday a memorandum of cooperation in strengthening NATO and political-security capacities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). 

"Today's signing of the Memorandum further strengthens our alliance within NATO and extends the cooperation framework between the two countries. The United Kingdom, as our significant ally and friend, contributes to further strengthening and developing the capacities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in order to more effectively fulfill our political and coordinating role regarding various issues related to North Macedonia's membership in the Alliance," Osmani pointed out.

Ambassador Lawson noted that the United Kingdom has been a constant partner in supporting North Macedonia's integration in the NATO Alliance.

"This project is yet another example of the UK's continued support for North Macedonia as a NATO ally, aimed at developing capacities and skills so that it can continue to contribute and fulfill a more significant role as NATO member," Ambassador Lawson said, adding that the United Kingdom's donations of equipment, providing training instructors, deployment of advisers and participation in joint exercises have contributed to achieving the common goal of ensuring peace, stability and security in the region.

In addition, he stressed that such efforts are proof of the commitment of both countries to guarantee the collective defense and security of the NATO Alliance.

The project will run through March 2024, and includes deployment of a resident expert to contribute to the Foreign Ministry's skillful and highly competent participation in the work of NATO structures. Also, the project should contribute to the overall readiness of the country's institutions in ensuring highly effective and efficient management of political roles in the area of security policy and security issues.

Photo: MFA