Defense Minister Fatmir Besimi met Monday with U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, thus completing the annual bilateral consultations in the defense field.

The countries' defense chiefs exchanged opinions on regional peace and security, Macedonia's progress in implementation of defense reforms and preparations for NATO accession. The U.S.-Macedonia strategic partnership was assessed as key in maintaining Southeast Europe stability, the Defense Ministry said in a press release.

Interlocutors also tackled Afghanistan, where Macedonia is the fifth-largest per capita contributor in the ISAF mission, with Besimi thanking Panetta for his praise over the contribution of Macedonia's troops in the NATO-led mission.

Besimi and Panetta also shared the commitment to the NATO "open doors" policy, including all European democracies that meet required criteria. Besimi also voiced readiness over Macedonia's contribution in current and future NATO missions as its member.

The meeting also focused on projects that would help Macedonia to prepare towards complete NATO integration, including coordination within the A5 Adriatic Group, country's contribution in the military police school for the Afghan national army, establishment of a Balkan Regional Approach to Air Defense (BRAAD), as well as regional leadership in Southeast Europe "smart defense" project coordination.

During his stay in the United States, Minister Besimi paid a visit to the Vermont National Guard, which has cooperated with the Macedonian Army for two decades.

Last week's defense consultations were held with Celeste A. Wallander, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine, and Eurasia.