Veles, 6 December 2024 (MIA) - Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski and Chief of the General Staff, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, accompanied by Canadian Ambassador Michelle Cameron and Ukrainian Ambassador Larysa Dir, visited Friday the Veles army barracks for the distinguished visitors’ day and the closing of Maple Arch 24 exercise, taking place at the Simulations Center and Krivolak army field since November 25.

The exercise, held for the 25th time bringing together more than 600 members of four ally armies and two partner countries, is different from all the rest because it features a combination of computer simulation and on-the-ground activities, said Minister Misajlovski. 

“What we’re seeing here, in Veles, and the activities taking place at the same time at Krivolak, is the biggest proof that the Macedonian army offers conditions and opportunities for exercises in line with top NATO standards,” he stated. 

Congratulating all the servicemen on their dedication and motivation, Misajlovski said that cooperation between the armies affects directly how interoperability and security can be enhanced. 

These exercises, said Major General Lafchiski, are a proof of the training, continuity and cohesion between the servicemen, which allows ties between the allies and partners to be strengthened further. 

Canadian Ambassador Cameron thanked the Macedonian army and the country for their support to the exercise, saying it demonstrates the unity and joint dedication to global peace, stability, joint values and partnership within NATO. 

Some 600 members from four ally armies and two partner armies took part in the Maple Arch 24 international military exercise. In addition to Macedonian servicemen, members of the armed forces of Canada, Poland, Lithuania, Ukraine and Georgia have been participating. 

It is a computer-assisted exercise combined with on-the-field activities held at the Krivolak army training ground.

The exercise is sponsored and supported by the Directorate of Military Training and Cooperation of the Canadian Armed Forces, said the Defense Ministry.