SACEUR visits North Macedonia

General Curtis M. Scaparrotti,  Supreme Allied Commander Europe speaks with troops following a  military demonstration,   thanking them for their dedication to their nation and military professionalism at Ilinden Barracks. (Courtesy photo)

SKOPJE, North Macedonia -- General Curtis M. Scaparrotti, Supreme Allied Commander Europe, highlighted Skopje’s contributions to NATO in his first official visit to North Macedonia on Aug. 9, 2018.

During the visit, General Scaparrotti met with Prime Minister Zoran Zaev and Minister of Defence Radmila Šekerinska where he thanked them for taking a leadership role in the Western Balkans as demonstrated by their participation in many initiatives to enhance cooperation and security in the region.

They also discussed NATO’s formal invitation to the country as the 30^th member of the Alliance. General Scaparrotti offered Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) support to the leadership in the accession process.

"Your nation is building a bright future and is making progress,” said General Scaparrotti. "NATO shares your commitment to democracy, rule of law as well as security and stability in the region.”

As part of the visit, Minister Šekerinska accompanied General Scaparrotti to Ilinden Barracks to observe a military demonstration. Following the demonstration, General Scaparrotti took a few moments to thank the military service members for their dedication to their nation and military professionalism.

Story by SHAPE Public Affairs Office