Skopje, 26 September 2023 (MIA) - President Stevo Pendarovski met Tuesday with Slovenia's Defence Minister Marjan Šarec, who is paying an official visit to North Macedonia.

Talks reaffirmed the common commitment to intensify bilateral cooperation in the area of defence and cooperation as part of NATO-led missions. Participants in the meeting also exchanged views on the current developments and security challenges in the region. 

Interlocutors stressed that the two countries will continue to make a selfless contribution to regional initiatives in the interest of further development of the region and a common future in the European Union, the President's Office said in a press release.

President Pendarovski welcomed the signing of the defence cooperation agreement between the two countries, expressing the expectation that it will deepen the cooperation and open a new chapter of initiatives and projects.  

Pendarovski expressed regret for the loss and damage suffered in the torrential floods that hit Slovenia, adding that both this time and during the wildfires in North Macedonia, the two countries have once again proven their mutual partnership and solidarity.

"Interlocutors expressed readiness for further mutual assistance and support in dealing with natural disasters and climate challenges, as well as for a joint response in emergencies," reads the press release. 

Pendarovski extended gratitude for Slovenia's consistent support in terms of the country's EU accession, as well as the overall support towards the implementation of the country's reform processes and democratization. 

Photo and video: Office of the President of the Republic of North Macedonia