Skopje, 18 February 2024 (MIA) – The caretaker Prime Minister Talat Xhaferi, concluded his attendance at the 60th Munich Security Conference, which has served as a platform for peace through dialogue for six decades, offering a valuable opportunity to reaffirm North Macedonia's strong commitment to the Euro-Atlantic path and democratic values.

Prime Minister Xhaferi, along with 450 other political leaders, shared North Macedonia's commitment to strategic partnership with the USA, contribution to and membership in NATO, and accelerated integration into the EU through participation in panels, informal discussions, and bilateral meetings. During the conference, a unanimous agreement was reached to prioritize reconciliation over retaliation and to bolster regional cooperation - as integral steps towards full integration into the European Union.

The role of the United States and its leadership in global security is of utmost importance. The free democratic world is once again faced with defending democratic values against the rising authoritarianism of certain actors.

During the panels addressed by Vice President of the USA, Kamala Harris, Chancellor Schultz, President of Ukraine, Zelensky, and NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg, support for Ukraine in defending these values ​​has been reaffirmed. The need for committed assistance to Ukraine in providing military equipment and aid, as well as strengthening Ukraine's position, has been emphasized. Regarding NATO, it has been confirmed that despite growing threats, NATO is becoming stronger and more resilient than ever before. Germany is increasingly investing in its defense and emphasizes the need for European countries to take more responsibility for security, both now and in the future, in order to strengthen deterrence policies.

In bilateral meetings with partners from Europe and the world, it was emphasized that elections are a determinant factor for North Macedonia's Euro-Atlantic perspectives, but also of great regional significance. The integration of the Western Balkans into the EU is a political, security, and economic interest for both the region and the Union, representing a geostrategic investment in the stability of the European continent and beyond.

During meetings with regional leaders and partners, the dedication to the Euro-Atlantic region, characterized by European standards of living and resilience against harmful nationalisms, disinformation, was reaffirmed as crucial for progress.

Photo: MIA archive