Skopje, 17 September 2021 (MIA) – Defence Minister Radmila Shekerinska spent the first day of her visit to the US in meetings at the State Department and the Pentagon. At the State Department, she met with the new US envoy for the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar. Interlocutors concluded during the meeting that the Western Balkans belongs in the EU and that the new US administration wants North Macedonia to start accession negotiations with the European Union as soon as possible, the Ministry of Defence said in a press release on Friday. At the Department of State, the Minister also met with the head of the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs Timothy Alan Betts, who reaffirmed the US’ position for stable and prosperous region and resolution of disputes that undermine peace and stability. Minister Shekerinska underlined that North Macedonia, as a member of NATO, accepts the responsibility to contribute to security in the Balkans and participate in multiple regional initiatives, such as KFOR's mission in Kosovo. At the Pentagon, Shekerinska held a meeting with Heidi Grant, director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency and discussed ongoing projects aimed at Army modernization. The Minister also visited in Washington the Arlington National Cemetery and laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.