Macedonia officially receives invitation for NATO, Stoltenberg and Zaev sign approved document

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev failed to hide his emotions in obtaining the document, signed by 29 leaders of the member states of the North-Atlantic Alliance.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said this day is historic not only for Macedonia but for the region and NATO as well.

I wish you all those who courageously participated in the commitment to the best future. This was the decisive step, which paves the way for your country to become an all-powerful NATO member. The membership negotiations will begin, helping your country prepare for full-fledged membership.

All procedures are complete and all NATO members as soon as they ratify the agreement, your country will become its 30th member and sit at our table with equal rights during making decisions.”, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said.

Prime Minister Zaev said the invitation for NATO membership came as a result of the Agreement with Greece and vows that this process will lead to the end. He says Macedonia in NATO means stability for the region. Government leader Zaev said this goal is a result of two decades since the state's independence, attributing the merits to all political structures over time.

“As the future 30th member of the Alliance, we are willing to set a positive example in our region and enable further developments in the Western Balkans for peace, prosperity and democratic region that can ensure a bright future for all our citizens.

Dear Stoltenberg, let me express my personal thanks to you, your team and the local NATO office for your continued support.”, Prime Minister Zoran Zaev said. He expressed regret that President Gjorge Ivanov is not part of Macedonia's NATO delegation.

From Ivanov, Zaev said they received nothing, no orders, no bridges for NATO invitation. We must accept the citizens' decision, however that decision, Zaev said, seeking the citizens' support in finalising this process.