NATO military representatives visit North Macedonia for first time
From September 20 to 23, 2026, a delegation of national military representatives to the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) is visiting North Macedonia and the Army for the first time.
The purpose of the visit is to provide the national military representatives with a better understanding of the strategic and operational aspects of security and defence through direct insight into the host country’s security and defence policies and capabilities, the organisation and readiness of its armed forces, as well as its culture, traditions and customs, CE Report informs via the Army of North Macedonia's official website.
At the Ilinden Barracks in Skopje, the guests were welcomed by the Chief of the General Staff of the Army, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, Deputy Chief of the General Staff Major General Azim Nuredin and Commander of the Operations Command Brigadier General Mirche Gjorgoski.
Welcoming the guests, Major General Sashko Lafchiski stressed the importance of allied cooperation, which is built on trust and shared values within NATO, which he described as the most powerful defence alliance in history.
He noted that the Army plays an important role in contributing to the Alliance’s mobility, speed, initiative, resilience and strategic depth through its capabilities and active participation in NATO missions, operations and activities. He added that this has contributed to the country being recognised as a credible, valued and respected member of the Alliance.
The military representatives were briefed on North Macedonia’s participation in international missions and activities within NATO, the Army’s modernisation and equipment process, and the capabilities of the Krivolak Army Training Area, one of the most important training grounds in Southeast Europe.
The national military representatives also attended a tactical and technical presentation, where they had the opportunity to see some of the weapons, military equipment and assets used by the Army, as well as their purpose and application in carrying out regular tasks.
They also observed a demonstration exercise conducted by personnel from the Special Operations Battalion, the Light Infantry Battalion Group and the Dog Breeding and Training Centre, giving them a direct insight into the Army’s readiness and capabilities.
The dean of the delegation of national military representatives, Major General Stéphane Merchenaud of France, expressed his sincere gratitude for the hospitality, high level of organisation and substantive presentations showcasing the Army.
He said that such visits make an important contribution to deepening mutual trust, strengthening allied cohesion and advancing military cooperation within NATO.
Visits by delegations of national military representatives are conducted on a rotational basis, with a different member state hosting the activity each year.
Such visits provide an important opportunity to exchange experiences and best practices, deepen mutual understanding and strengthen military cooperation among allies. At the same time, they contribute to improving interoperability and building even stronger partnerships within the Alliance.
Photo Army of North Macedonia
