Skopje, 14 January 2026 (MIA) – Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski and the Chief of the General Staff, Major General Sashko Lafchiski held Wednesday a farewell meeting with outgoing US Ambassador Angela Aggeler.

Defense attaché Daniel Squyres was also in attendance, said the Defense Ministry. 

In the meeting, Minister Misajlovski said cooperation with Ambassador Aggeler and the US Embassy has been excellent thanks to the strategic partnership between the two countries that is being advanced. 

“As Ambassador Aggeler is concluding her term, Misajlovski thanked her for her professional support, sincere dedication and personal engagement to enhance our mutual understanding and friendship further boosting this key partnership. Misajlovski added that the role of the US and its continuing support is vital for the development of defense capacities, the pillar of peace and security of the country and the wider region, which is seen as an additional benefit for the established image of the Defense Ministry and the Macedonian army as part of NATO and beyond,” said the press release. 

Gen. Lafchiski expressed gratitude to Ambassador Aggeler noting that a significant portion of the goals set in the bilateral defense cooperation have been fulfilled during her term. 

The general also highlighted the excellent cooperation between the Army and the United States Armed Forces, implemented through multiple programs to support various fields of defense contributing to strengthening interoperability between the two armies.  

“One of the greatest gifts in life is when you’ve been given the chance to work with people you not only like but you also respect and learn from. With Minister Misajlovski and the Chief of Staff, Lafchiski, we had the chance to work together on issues important for NATO and the region,” Ambassador Aggeler thanking for the support throughout her term. 

Photo: Defense Ministry