Macedonian Government's top priority is Euro-Atlantic integration, and NATO's open door policy should continue, said the country's Defense Minister Zoran Jolevski on Thursday, at the Pentagon meeting with Deputy Assistant Defense Secretary Michael Carpenter.
Jolevski has presented the arguments why Macedonia deserves to receive a NATO membership invitation, pointing that it has met all the criteria in the defense area and it has proven to be trusty partner, prepared to become part of the alliance.
The two high state officials discussed defense reforms, the modernization of the Macedonian Army, as well as its participation in the largest military drill, dubbed 'Anakonda', taking place in Poland, the Defense Ministry said in a press release.
"Minister Jolevski informed about the start of the process aimed at drafting a new defense strategy, and has referred to regional cooperation and Macedonia's constructive role in regional initiatives, pointing the country will host the Balkan medical units command in September. He also informed about the initiative to have the SEEBRI headquarters in Macedonia," the press release added.
On Thursday, Jolevski took part in the conference titled "The Future of NATO Enlargement and New Frontiers in European Security", at the meeting's third panel dubbed "Future of Expansions: Are NATO's Doors Still Open?".