"The significance and role of the special operations unit has been confirmed on many occasions over the course of its existence, said Minister of Interior Gordana Jankuloska at the event.

According to her, the alpine, diving, negotiating and sniper teams have had enormous success in their tasks.

"The unit is prepared to respond to all challenges, including its vital role during the 2001 conflict", said unit commander Slavco Petrusevski.

He added the new trends in the security sector, dictated by the internal and external needs and circumstances, required further more intensive development of the unit.