Brussels – Today in Brussels, Timcho Mutsunski, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of North Macedonia, and Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, signed a Security and Defense Partnership Agreement between North Macedonia and the European Union.
This agreement aims to enhance resilience and facilitate collaborative responses to various security challenges, including hybrid threats, cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and integrated border management. It also encompasses participation in missions and operations, paving the way for more effective cooperation in additional security and defense domains. Furthermore, this partnership signifies a pivotal step in fostering practical collaboration between North Macedonia and the European Union.
According to the European External Action Service (EEAS), the partnership lays the groundwork for strengthened dialogue and cooperation on security and defense matters, demonstrating both parties’ commitment to tackling shared security challenges in a complex global landscape.
The announcement highlights that the ongoing unprovoked aggression by Russia against Ukraine underscores the necessity for unity and close collaboration between the EU and its key partners.
North Macedonia, as a candidate for EU membership, is recognized as an important and valued ally in matters of security and defense and actively participates in the EU’s common security and defense policy.
The EEAS stated that this Security and Defense Partnership Agreement is expected to benefit the citizens of both North Macedonia and the EU by fostering peace, stability, and security.
Cooperation areas within the partnership will be regularly assessed to track progress and ensure that the agreement effectively addresses emerging security challenges, as emphasized by the EEAS.
The announcement also referenced a decision made by the EU in September 2024 to provide €13 million in support for the Army of North Macedonia through the European Peace Facility, marking a significant development in their collaborative security and defense efforts.
Additionally, the EU’s decision in March 2023 to enhance the capabilities of North Macedonia’s armed forces by upgrading the equipment of its light infantry battalion reflects the EU’s recognition of North Macedonia’s alignment with its common foreign and security policy, affirming the country’s strategic choice for integration into the EU.
The EU and North Macedonia are committed to deepening their cooperation to tackle pressing security and defense issues and to exploring new collaborative initiatives. This partnership represents a substantial advancement in their shared dedication to a safer and more resilient Europe.
During a press conference following the Foreign Affairs Council, Borrell emphasized that this agreement demonstrates that the EU is not solely an economic union but also a political entity with responsibilities across various aspects of political life, including security and defense. He stated, “Without security, nothing can be achieved. We must diligently work to ensure the safety of Europeans, particularly as we navigate a world that is less secure than it was five years ago.”
North Macedonia becomes the first country in the Western Balkans to forge such a partnership with the EU. The EU is anticipated to sign a similar agreement with Albania in the near future, having previously established agreements with Japan, South Korea, Canada, Norway, and Moldova, thereby reinforcing the Union’s commitment to strengthening European security architecture. (November 19)
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