Skopje, 10 January 2023 (MIA) — Minister of Defense Slavjanka Petrovska met with Spencer P. Boyer, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for European and NATO Policy, who is part of the delegation of the U.S State Department Counselor Derek Chollet on an official visit to North Macedonia.

 
Minister Petrovska and Deputy Assistant Secretary Boyer discussed the strategic defense partnership between North Macedonia and the United States, with the defense minister reviewing ongoing projects for the modernization of the Army and the steps taken by the state to strengthen regional stability and security as well as support Ukraine, the Ministry of Defense said.

Petrovska said the United States has been North Macedonia’s long-term strategic partner in the development of the national army's capacities. She also gave thanks for its support of 106 million US dollars for equipping the army in 2022.

Stressing the USA’s commitment to peace, stability and prosperity of the region and for the military modernization of North Macedonia, Petrovska said: “Our strategic partners, the United States, have unequivocally supported our efforts to build modern interoperable forces and a modern Army.” 

“The defense budget in the last few years has seen an unprecedented growth; these numbers are undeniable proof of our determination to invest more in the Army and its members,” Petrovska added. mr/