In the framework of the Wroclaw Global Forum 2015, Defense Minister Zoran Jolevski met Saturday with General James Jones and Stephen Hadley, former United States National Security Advisors, and Damon Wilson, executive vice-president of Washington-based think-tank Atlantic Council.

At the meetings, Minister Jolevski highlighted the necessity of Macedonia's NATO membership.

"The accession of Macedonia and Montenegro, as well as advancement of the Bosnia-Herzegovina process, will enhance peace and security in Southeast Europe", added Jolevski.

He stressed that NATO and Macedonia share the same values.

"Macedonia met membership criteria in 2008 and de facto acts as an Alliance member. This is seen through its participation in numerous missions, such as 'Iraqi Freedom', ISAF and 'Resolute Support', as well as its logistical support to the KFOR mission", said Jolevski.

Interlocutors provided full support to Macedonia's NATO accession, with General Jones emphasizing the professionalism and capabilities of Macedonian troops.

On Friday, Minister Jolevski met with U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, exchanging opinions on global geopolitical events, the Ukraine crisis, threats on global peace arising from the Syria and Iraq conflicts, but also regional developments, including Macedonia's aspirations to join NATO and the EU.

The Wroclaw Global Forum is the leading transatlantic conference in Poland, bringing together outstanding policy and business entrepreneurs for discussions focused on the core transatlantic values of democracy, prosperity, and security. The Forum highlights Central Europe’s successful economic and political transition, its strong ties with Germany and other leading European countries, and its growing influence within the transatlantic partnership and on the global stage. Convening more than 400 leaders from government, the corporate world, media, and civil society, the Forum is a key distributor of ideas and influence both regionally and worldwide.