The Ministry of Defence and the Army hosted the 65th Plenary Session of the NATO Committee of the Chiefs of Military Medical Services (COMEDS) in Skopje from 2 to 4 June 2026. The session brought together representatives of Allied nations, partner countries, and observers, with the primary objective of enhancing cooperation and medical preparedness in support of NATO’s collective defence.
During the opening of the session, the Deputy Chief of the Army General Staff, Major General Azim Nuredin, emphasized that the contemporary security environment is becoming increasingly complex and interconnected, with armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, public health challenges, and emerging security threats requiring a coordinated approach and strong international cooperation. “No nation can address these challenges alone. Our shared success depends on interoperability, adherence to common standards, innovation, and the willingness to learn from one another,” General Nuredin stated.
On this occasion, the Chair of COMEDS, Brigadier General Petter Iversen, highlighted Macedonian hospitality, emphasising that it reflects North Macedonia’s commitment to Allied solidarity and medical preparedness.
The discussions during the 65th Plenary Session focused on enhancing medical support, promoting an integrated approach, and strengthening cooperation between civilian and military healthcare systems, all aimed at improving medical preparedness.
In addition, participants discussed strengthening medical capabilities, interoperability among national military medical systems, medical evacuation, logistic support, the integration of medical requirements into NATO operational planning, as well as experiences and lessons learned from on-going operations and exercises.
The NATO Committee of the Chiefs of Military Medical Services is the Alliance’s highest advisory body on military medical matters. The Committee provides medical advice to the NATO Military Committee and serves as a key advisory and coordinating body for the development of military medical policies, capabilities, and standards across the Alliance.
