Security in the Balkans has never been at a higher level in the last 30 years, bearing in mind that most of the countries are in NATO, said North Macedonian Defense Minister Radmila Sekerinska.
She said that there are still too many open political issues in the Balkans, stating that North Macedonia has shown that solving problems is the only way that countries in the Balkans can increase stability.
Šekerinska told Cnogorsk journalists in Brussels that North Macedonia has done it and is now one step away from NATO membership.
"We believe that this is our biggest contribution not only to ours but also to the stability of the Balkans." Bearing in mind that most of the countries are in NATO, I think that our security is much higher than it has been in the last 30 years," said Šekerinska.
She believes that the countries in the Balkans should not expect security to be only a guarantee of the Alliance.
"But safety and security must be our investment through smart political moves and the development of friendship between countries," said Šekerinska.
She said that whenever analyzes were made of the issues that keep the Balkans captive, North Macedonia's relations with Greece and somewhat with Bulgaria, the issue of dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade, and the issue of Bosnia were always mentioned.
"We gave a signal that all problems can be solved if there is political will. That was our message to our neighbors - sit down and find solutions, it's better for our countries and our citizens," Šekerinska pointed out.
She said that North Macedonia felt the impact of its recent membership in NATO on the economic, political and security level.
"Trust in our country, in our economy, has returned and a positive cycle has been created. All credit agencies stated that our economic situation is better because of NATO membership," said Šekerinska.
She said that North Macedonia had four times more foreign investments in the year when it was invited for membership than the year before.
Šekerinska said that they managed to increase salaries and pensions and create additional 60 new jobs.
"We expect membership in the Alliance in mid-March. In this way, we protect the security zone in the region. It will be another seal of security for the Balkans," Šekerinska said.
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