Skopje, 21 November 2023 (MIA) - NATO Allies guarantee North Macedonia's security. In the last three years, following NATO membership, you have seen more foreign investment, increased growth and more jobs. Peace and stability is a precondition for economic prosperity, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in his address to the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia on Tuesday. 

Stoltenberg, who is paying an official visit to the country, pointed out that membership of NATO is an essential stepping stone towards membership of the European Union. 

"The road to NATO membership was long and challenging. Your country first decided to join NATO thirty years ago. This journey required perseverance, determination, and a commitment to reform. With political courage and vision, you reached an historic compromise with Greece: the Prespa Agreement made NATO accession possible. It has also contributed to good neighbourly relations, and a brighter future for the people of North Macedonia. In March 2020, you finally achieved your ambition and became a full member of NATO," Stoltenberg added.

He pointed out that NATO membership for North Macedonia was a welcome point of light in the darkness. According to him, even in those early days, the benefits of membership were apparent. 

"Today, NATO Allies guarantee North Macedonia's security. Allies standing together to protect and defend each other," Stoltenberg added. 

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