Republic of Macedonia is prepared to assume its earned place as a full-fledged NATO member, said Defense Minister Zoran Jolevski at Monday's meeting with United States Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Evelyn Farkas.

Jolevski stressed NATO and EU accession remain Macedonia's strategic objectives.

"Minister Jolevski said reforms are continual, developing the capacities of the Macedonian Army (ARM) and its troops, adding that the Military Academy would introduce the instruction in English language in the third and final years of studies, thus opening the room for student exchange with partner-states", the Defense Ministry said in a press release.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Farkas said the United States support Macedonia's NATO accession, voicing gratitude over ARM's contribution in international peacekeeping missions.

"Macedonian peacekeepers are among the most visible in Afghanistan. They are the first that come to my mind when thinking about the mission. True professionals with highly developed qualities and capacities", added Farkas.

Interlocutors agreed on the high level of bilateral defense relations, which should be maintained, along with finding fresh innovative opportunities and ways for further development.