Skopje, 1 June 2022 (MIA) – The North Macedonia-United States Strategic Dialogue, which is set to take place in Washington on Thursday, will focus on economy, energy, investments, strengthening of democratic institutions, defense and security, culture and other topics. Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani heads the Macedonian delegation, also including Economy Minister Kreshnik Bekteshi, Defense Minister Slavjanka Petrovska and Culture Minister Bisera Kostadinovska Stojchevska, whereas U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Karen Donfried will host the Strategic Dialogue meeting. U.S. Ambassador Kate Marie Byrnes has told Alsat TV that the agenda is still being drafted. “Nevertheless, the idea is to incorporate a number of topics related to the economy, strengthening of democratic institutions, defense and security, as well as bringing in experts to discuss the priorities of both parties. Assistant Secretary Donfried will be the official host but there will be an opportunity for meetings with other official as well,” says Ambassador Byrnes. According to her, the Strategic Dialogue is a good opportunity for continued cooperation between the two countries and an excellent roadmap for resumption of the bilateral partnership. “The purpose of the Strategic Dialogue is to look into areas that we have not yet fully explored. There is still room to work on issues in the field of defense and security but also many other areas such as economy, energy, climate change, working with the youth, cultural exchange, education. I believe the Strategic Dialogue offers interesting opportunities for the future and sends a signal that the U.S. wants to engage even more. This is a good sign that both countries can continue to build on their partnership,” says Byrnes.