I will do my job with utmost responsibility and contribute to building an army in line with NATO standards, prepared to cope with contemporary challenges, stressed Talat Xhaferi, who took over Tuesday the Defense Minister's post from Fatmir Besimi.

Saying it is an honor to head the Defense Ministry towards successful completion of reforms and the Macedonian Army (ARM) modernization, Xhaferi added his efforts would aim towards making the army a reflection of the country's reality.

"A symbol of interethnic coexistence, tolerance, respect of diversities, as well as reconciliation between ethnic groups", said the new Defense Minister.

Outgoing minister Besimi said his 1,5-year term had three objectives - Macedonia's recognition as contributor in global peace and implementation of NATO standards, continual efforts towards strengthening interethnic and inter-religious confidence and making ARM an institution of mutual respect, where diversities represent a unique benefit, as well as creating a modern and highly professional army.

"We remain commited to full-fledged NATO membership, including the open political defense challenges and achievement of the long-term defense development plan and ARM modernization. Recent years have been difficult from an economic aspect, having an effect on the defense budget", underlined Besimi while voicing his conviction that Macedonia would be successful in the Euro-Atlantic integration efforts.