The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, met today with Major General Steven Cray, Commander of the Vermont National Guard.

At the meeting, they exchanged views and information about the reform process in the defence of the Republic of Macedonia, as well as about the achievements of the Army of the Republic of Macedonia and the Vermont National Guard from their joint participation in international peacekeeping missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

President Ivanov stressed the importance of joint contribution to peace keeping and freedom in the world, particularly in regions which struggle to overcome the destabilization. The Macedonian President praised the strategic partnership of the Army of the Republic of Macedonia with the Vermont National Guard and expressed hope that the successful cooperation with this federal state in the field of defence will be the impetus for expanding cooperation in other areas of mutual interest. At the same time, President Ivanov said that the cooperation in recent years has contributed in achieving NATO standards in many areas, which is of strategic importance for the Republic of Macedonia.

General Cray expressed satisfaction with the jointly implemented projects, exercises and trainings with the Army of the Republic of Macedonia and expressed hope that the partnership will continue. In this context, General Cray commended the huge engagement of the Macedonian Army in peacekeeping operations, adding that the United States highly appreciate the continued contribution of Macedonia, as a reflection of the sincere and profound friendship between the two countries.

Both interlocutors agreed that the Republic of Macedonia deserves to soon become a member of NATO, which will be an additional contribution to the progress and development of the Balkans.