Skopje, 26 August 2021 (MIA) – The epidemic, floods and fires reminded us of the importance of strengthening regional togetherness, Defence Minister Radmila Shekerinska said on Thursday during an event marking the handover of the presidency over the Southeastern Europe Defence Ministerial Process and the 22th anniversary of Southeastern-Europe Brigade (SEEBRIG). The event took place in Kumanovo and was also attended by high representatives from Bulgaria, Albania, Greece, Romania and Turkey. She thanked allies and friends from the region and beyond who offered North Macedonia assistance in fighting forest fires. Moreover, the Minister underlined that after joining NATO, EU integration still remains a priority for the country. “Now we’re a part of the most powerful military and political Alliance and allies with some of the most powerful countries in the world. But, we won’t stop there, because we have a lot of work to do on the EU integration front,” Shekerinska said. Bulgaria took over the presidency of the Southeastern Europe Defence Ministerial Process from Albania. A ministerial meeting is set to take place as part of the process in Skopje in November during which policies of togetherness and solidarity in managing new threats and challenges will be reaffirmed.