Today, at the Military Stadium in the City Park in Skopje, the celebration of 18 February- International Day of Military Sports officially began with the formation of teams from the Army’s commands and units.
Under the motto “Friendship through Sport,” members of the Army traditionally, for the twenty-first time, took part in marking this day by competing in several sports disciplines: running, football, basketball, volleyball, and table tennis.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Deputy Chief of the Army General Staff, Major General Azim Nuredin,; the State Secretary at the Ministry of Defense, Elizabeta Chupovska-Ristova; the Dean of the Faculty of Physical Education, Sport and Health, Mr. Vlatko Nedelkovski; and Vice Dean of the Military Academy, Ms. Biljana Karovska-Andonovska.
At the ceremonial opening, the Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Major General Azim Nuredin, addressed the attendees, emphasizing that sport in the Army represents an important segment of training, as well as a valuable tool for promoting friendship, camaraderie, and the bringing together of nations through participation in international competitions and sporting activities. With the message, “Let sport bring you closer together, and may the best prevail in the competitions,” he officially declared International Day of Military Sports open.
Elizabeta Chupovska-Ristova, the State Secretary at the Ministry of Defense, emphasized at today’s ceremonial opening that sport is yet another way to build character and team spirit, both of which are of particular importance in the execution of missions and tasks in service of the people and the state. “Demonstrate your capabilities on the field in the name of friendship and unity among all of you,” said Chupovska-Ristova.
As part of today’s event, Captain Tamara Gjorgievska was presented with a trophy for Best Athlete in the Army for 2025 in recognition of her sporting achievements. In addition, certificates of appreciation were awarded to other stakeholders who provide support in the organization and implementation of this activity.
The International Military Sports Council was established on 18 February 1948, and the Army has been a full member since 2005. Through participation in its programs and competitions, the Army actively contributes to strengthening inter-army cooperation, deepening friendships, and promoting peace in the region and beyond.
