Brussels, 19 November 2024
On 19 November, the EU and North Macedonia signed a Security and Defence Partnership.
This new political framework for dialogue and cooperation on security and defence issues was signed by the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, on behalf of the European Union and by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Timčo Mucunski, on behalf of North Macedonia. The Partnership establishes a platform for enhanced dialogue and cooperation on security and defence issues, reflecting the determination of both Parties to work together to address shared security challenges in an increasingly complex global environment.
The ongoing, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression by Russia against Ukraine highlights the critical importance of unity and close cooperation within the EU and with its closest partners. North Macedonia is a candidate to join the European Union and an important and valuable partner for the EU in the areas of security and defence. As such, it is also an active third state participant in the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).
The newly adopted Security and Defence Partnership builds on this strong foundation, paving the way for increased collaboration in key areas, including crisis management, support to Ukraine, countering hybrid threats, cyber security, capability building and training, counter-terrorism and external aspects of integrated border management.
The signature of the Security and Defence Partnership will benefit citizens in both EU and North Macedonia by promoting peace, stability and security.
The areas identified for collaboration in the Security and Defence Partnership will be regularly reviewed to track progress and ensure the Partnership remains robust and best addresses evolving challenges.
The September 2024 decision of the EU to provide €13 million support under the European Peace Facility to the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia has been an important milestone in our security and defence cooperation. Together with a March 2023 decision, they reflect the EU’s appreciation for North Macedonia’s full alignment with the Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, which is a very clear expression of North Macedonia’s strategic choice for a future within the EU.
The EU and North Macedonia stand united in their determination to deepen their cooperation in addressing pressing issues related to security and defence, and explore new avenues for joint action. This partnership represents a significant step forward in their shared commitment to a safer and more resilient Europe.
Source – EEAS
North Macedonia: Press statement by High Representative Josep Borrell following the signature of the Security and Defence Partnership Agreement
Check against delivery!
Today, I’m signing this Security and Defence Partnership. We mark a milestone in our strategic cooperation – the strategic cooperation between the European Union and North Macedonia, and the Western Balkans as a whole.
This is not just a declaration – it is a tangible step forward to a safer and more integrated Europe.
We know what it does mean, these days, a safer Europe.
This agreement underscores our shared commitment to advance our cooperation and move towards a gradual integration of North Macedonia even before it is a full member of the European Union.
I would like to recall the step-by-step, sequential, progressive integration.
North Macedonia is already fully aligned with the European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, a powerful demonstration of shared values and dedication to a common European future.
Likewise, the continued contributions to our CSDP (Common Security and Defence Policy) missions and operations, namely your contribution to operation EUFOR Althea, constitutes a clear sign of engagement towards the European Union in the area of security and defence.
During my last visit to Skopje, I had the honour of meeting your brave soldiers who served in European Union missions around the world. I truly appreciated the value of your contribution.
The European Union is recognising the value of your cooperation with us. We are providing our resources through the European Peace Facility in order to increase the equipment of your armed forces with non-lethal equipment.
I firmly underline the European Union’s commitment to continue supporting the Western Balkans in the area of Common Foreign and Security Policy, to provide additional support to North Macedonia, and to take forward its future in the European Union.
I congratulate you and I congratulate myself for this step. I thank you for coming here, and participating in this signature.
Link to the video: https://newsroom.consilium.europa.eu/events/20241119-eu-hr-borrell-meets-mfa-of-north-macedonia
Source – EEAS