New Defense White Paper on 20. ARM anniversary

Future reform efforts in defense field will focus on development of new and increased operational capabilities of the army towards meeting national and international commitments, as well as increase of the Defense Ministry's institutional capacities, said Defense Minister Fatmir Besimi in Monday's address at the debate over the draft-Defense White Paper.

Besimi said the country's aimed at deploying 50 percent of the army's future operational capabilities beyond its borders, taking part in the entire spectre of international operations.

According to him, the White Paper should represent a comprehensive transparent document that reflects the national security and defense policy, contribution in Euro-Atlantic and regional security and stability, the long-term plan for defense development, as well as defense support through resources.

"The White Paper will reaffirm the national values and interests towards full achievement of priority objectives, especially those related to the sooner accession in NATO and EU", added Besimi.

The new Defense White Paper, developed by experts, is set to be released on the 20. anniversary from the Macedonian Army (ARM) establishment. It should present prior defense reforms and vision for future processes.