Conference "Regional Post-ISAF Engagement - Lessons Learned and Legacy for A-5 Countries in Future Expeditionary Missions" was held in Skopje on Wednesday, organized by the Euro-Atlantic Council of Macedonia.

Defense Minister Fatmir Besimi stressed the conference is a good example how the NGO sector is involved in Euro-integration issues, including NATO peacekeeping missions.

"As of 2014, a new form of Afghanistan contribution will be applied, i.e. Afghan security forces will undertake full control. Macedonia will continue, alongside other NATO members and partners, to act as credible partner in international peacekeeping missions", said Besimi.

With regards to the European Council conclusions and EU's failure to determine a date for start of accession negotiations, the Defense Minister said regardless of the formal conclusions, Macedonia is committed to its Euro-Atlantic perspective.

"However, NATO is a step forward, since no summit is required if the name issue is resolved. The membership invitation can be extended at that very moment, but it is up to us to implement reforms and provide our contribution to global peace", added Besimi.

United States Ambassador Paul Wohlers said Macedonia is truly committed to the post-2014 NATO mission, especially in the context of the A5 group (Macedonia, Croatia, Albania, Montenegro, and Bosnia$Herzegovina).

"A5 member-states have already achieved significant success since the group's establishment in 2003 and we hope this trend will continue", stressed Wohlers.