Skopje, 1 December 2023 (MIA) - In 2023, the OSCE Mission focused on implementing projects related to small arms and light weapons (SALW), including improvement of police capacities over the uncovering but also raising the public awareness on the danger of their use, Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje, Ambassador Kilian Wahl, told the OSCE Ministerial Council on Friday.

Ambassador Wahl addressed event "It’s about people - the impact of OSCE field operations in 2023", saying the focus was placed on improving the verification of deactivation and destruction of firearms.

"Today's event is an opportunity to look back at the successful operations of our teams over the past year, and their daily commitment to people, but also the successful partnership with institutions. SALW was in the core of our mission," noted Wahl.

He added that 276 cases of firearms and ammunition were recorded at border crossings across Southeast Europe in 2022.

OSCE Chairman-in-Office Bujar Osmani said the Mission to Skopje has continually provided significant support to North Macedonia's institutions and citizens.

"2023 was not the easiest year but we tried to attach significance to OSCE missions. This is something that reflects the importance of the Organization and gives it increased legitimacy," said Osmani.

OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid said people's security, environment and economic progress are of crucial importance in every society, while highlighting the importance of OSCE missions.

"I am pleased to see North Macedonia's commitment and determination to provide greater security in society and implement OSCE's fundamental principles. We have delivered more than 300 programmes in the country, primarily in the fields of security. Eventually, it's all about the people. We could not reach this goal if not for the committed efforts of North Macedonia," underlined Schmid.

Photo: MIA