Macedonia and Bulgaria foster an excellent cooperation in the field of defense, countries' defense ministers, Fatmir Besimi and Anyu Angelov, concluded Thursday at a joint meeting in Sofia.

An annual cooperation plan between the two ministries was signed in the course of Besimi's visit to Bulgaria. The document is another sign of the excellent coopperation between Macedonia and Bulgaria, according to DM Besimi.

"At the meeting and at others held with counterparts from NATO countries, Macedonia's reforms are welcomed and they give credit for the country's contribution to international peace missions as well as support for NATO membership in compliance with the Alliance's principles on settling open political issues. The Republic of Macedonia de facto with its engagement proves that it is a credible partner of NATO," Besimi stated after the meeting.

The DM emphasised the importance of Macedonia's membership to NATO, not only for the country, but also for the entire region.

The accession of regional countries into NATO, according to him, is extremely crucial for their peace, stability and prosperity.

Interlocutors at the meeting also discussed several notable regional projects within the SEDM initiative and those referring to the 'smart defense' concept.

"Macedonia remains committed to its objective to join NATO, which is overwhelmingly backed by the citizens. Prior to and after the NATO summit in Chicago, Macedonia's membership is not a goal by itself, it is part of a long-term process taking place in continuity in the frameworks of the Euro-Atlantic integration," Besimi said.