Euro-Atlantic integration is the best alternative for the future of the Republic of Macedonia and the Balkans, whereas NATO and EU accession represent our national priority, stressed Defense Minister Fatmir Besimi after Monday's meeting with accredited military attaches in Macedonia, whom he briefed on prior and future plans in the defense sector and the army.

"Macedonia is recognizable through its contribution for global peace, partner of stability and country ready to join NATO", said Minister Besimi while announcing intensive meetings, visits and international cooperation prior to the Alliance's Chicago summit in May 2012.

Besimi also announced an increase of the 2012 defense budget, reaching 1.3 percent of the GDP, which represents a nine-percent rise compared to last year's budget.

"This increase will aim towards shaping a modern and highly professional army, participation in peacekeeping missions, as well as improvement of the standard of Macedonian Army (ARM) members", he said.

Minister Besimi also confirmed the decision over the opening of post military attache in PR China.

Moreover, Besimi announced project "Smart Defense", meaning a plan for rationalization of costs, improved planning and regional cooperation towards army modernization in line with NATO standards.

Euro-Atlantic integration is the best alternative for the future of the Republic of Macedonia and the Balkans, whereas NATO and EU accession represent our national priority, stressed Defense Minister Fatmir Besimi after Monday's meeting with accredited military attaches in Macedonia, whom he briefed on prior and future plans in the defense sector and the army.

"Macedonia is recognizable through its contribution for global peace, partner of stability and country ready to join NATO", said Minister Besimi while announcing intensive meetings, visits and international cooperation prior to the Alliance's Chicago summit in May 2012.

Besimi also announced an increase of the 2012 defense budget, reaching 1.3 percent of the GDP, which represents a nine-percent rise compared to last year's budget.

"This increase will aim towards shaping a modern and highly professional army, participation in peacekeeping missions, as well as improvement of the standard of Macedonian Army (ARM) members", he said.

Minister Besimi also confirmed the decision over the opening of post military attache in PR China.

Moreover, Besimi announced project "Smart Defense", meaning a plan for rationalization of costs, improved planning and regional cooperation towards army modernization in line with NATO standards.