With our presence at the Summit of the Adriatic Charter countries, we said that we are ready to cooperate in the interest of the citizens of our countries and through the integration processes to bring the region to the large family of NATO, said Prime Minister Zoran Zaev at the opening address of the Summit of the countries members of the Adriatic Charter, to which Macedonia is a member, as is Montenegro.
He said that Montenegro’s NATO membership is an encouraging message from the Alliance, that the doors are open to everyone who will rise above their own challenges and will demonstrate that they can contribute to the collective needs of their own citizens.
“ I express faith and readiness for action, for Macedonia to be the 30th member of NATO. Integrations into NATO and the European Union are strategic goals for our country. The new government, and I will commit myself to this forum, will determine the ways to these two organizations, in order to ensure the good lives for our citizens and the future of their children. In order to rush the process into the EU and NATO integration, we started the “3-6-9” plan for the reform priorities that will lead to professional and independent institutions, democratization of the whole society, and therefore, a quality life for all citizens”, stated Zaev.
He announced that Macedonia will be increasing its defense budget and increasing its participation in NATO missions, and relations with the Adriatic Charter member countries will intensify.
The Prime Minister added that with the presence of the High Representative of the United States of America, it turns out that that country is a faithful, strategic partner of Macedonia and of the region.
US Vice President Mike Pence said that the future of the Western Balkans is in the West.
“Montenegro’s entry into NATO is a historic success and shows the strength of this country, it took them only ten years after regaining independence. NATO consists of large and small countries, but the United States does not have small allies, and we appreciate our new alliance in NATO”, said Pence.
