Macedonian delegation led by Defense Minister Fatmir Besimi took part Wednesday at the annual bilateral defense consultations at the Pentagon. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Celeste Wallander led the U.S. delegation at the consultations.

Interlocutors stressed that U.S.-Macedonia strategic partnership is of enormous importance for the defense sector with regards to stability and economic progress, the Defense Ministry said in a press release.

The defense consultations represented an excellent opportunity for exchange of opinions over achievements in bilateral cooperation, as well as the level of implementation of defense reforms, preparations for NATO accession and contribution to peace, security and stability in regional and global terms.

The two delegations also confirmed the excellent cooperation between the Macedonian Army (ARM) and the Vermont National Guard, leading to joint initiatives and projects.

With regards to bilateral cooperation, the Macedonian and U.S. officials agreed on the significance of prior cooperation and possibility for its enhancement in the future through different ways, such as development of army field "Krivolak" into a regional training center.

Pertaining to Macedonia's NATO accession, Minister Besimi stressed the Alliance's open door policy is of crucial importance, overlapping with Macedonia's strategic priority - Euro-Atlantic integration.

"A strong argument of our commitment to Euro-Atlantic integration are the continual reforms and participation in international peacekeeping missions ISAF, KFOR, EU ALTHEA and UNIFIL", he added.

He said active participation in regional initiatives and maintenance of good neighborly relations in the region was of vital significance for the country.

"This is seen through the Adriatic Charter projects, which represent an efficient mechanism for promotion of regional leadership, cooperation, mentoring and trust building on the road to full-fledged NATO membership", emphasized Besimi.

Moreover, he referred to the necessity of a regional initiative, in the form of a working group, for coordination of projects within the 'smart defense' concept for Southeast Europe countries, with Macedonia assuming the role of regional coordination leader.