May 14, 2025 The Chief of Defense of the Republic of North Macedonia, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, participated at the NATO Military Committee Conference, in the format of Chiefs of Defense, at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Kingdom of Belgium.
During the conference, General Lafchiski actively participated in the discussions, emphasizing that interoperability remains a key element of NATO’s readiness. “Through the achievement of our goals and cooperation with our allies, we support NATO’s efforts to address current and future threats,” General Lafchiski stated.
Regarding the participation of our Army in NATO-led missions, General Lafchiski emphasized the clear commitment to the readiness of the army forces, as well as the dedication to solidarity with the Allies through participation in NATO-led deterrence missions. It was highlighted that Macedonian soldiers are actively involved in NATO missions on the eastern flank of the Alliance, specifically in Bulgaria, Romania and Latvia. On this occasion, the role of our Army in NATO’s collective training was also underlined through our participation in NATO-led exercises.
The Chair of the Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, stated in his opening address that the purpose of today’s meeting is to highlight the Alliance’s comprehensive approach in addressing the global challenges through unity and cooperation. Additionally, Admiral Dragone emphasized that the current security challenges require investments in time and resources, stating “investing more, not spending more, is imperative for maintaining peace now and in the future.”
The Military Committee Conference was held in several sessions.
First, the NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Christopher Cavoli, briefed the Chiefs of Defense on the Alliance’s continued efforts to strengthen collective defense and deterrence. During this session, the Chiefs of Defence of the Alliance member countries exchanged views on ongoing NATO missions and activities, as well as on the NATO’s security assistance and training for Ukraine.
Next, the NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, Admiral Pierre Vandier, briefed on NATO’s defense planning and opportunities for innovations and challenges.
The session dedicated to Ukraine discussed the Russian military aggression against Ukraine, the situation on the ground, and NATO’s continued support for Ukraine.
The conclusions of the meeting will be announced later today at a press conference to be addressed by the Chair of the Military Committee, Admiral Dragone.
The Military Committee Conference, in addition to representatives from the 32 NATO member countries, was attended by the commanders of NATO’s Supreme Allied Command Europe and NATO’s Supreme Allied Command Transformation. This body convenes in various formats, with the highest level being the Chiefs of Defense, which typically meets three times a year, twice at NATO Headquarters and once in a member country of the Alliance.
