site.btaDefence Minister Karakachanov Goes on Official Visit to Macedonia

Skopje, September 18 (BTA) - During a one-day official visit to Macedonia Monday Bulgarian Defence Minister Krassimir Karakachanov met with his Macedonian counterpart Radmila Sekerinska, said Karakachanov's Ministry. The Bulgarian Defence Minister said that his country has been supporting consistently the unity and territorial integrity of Macedonia. "We sincerely hope that the republic of Macedonia will be able the soonest possible to come to a working solution for its name issue and open up a new page in relations to NATO and the EU," said Karakachanov.

He stressed that Bulgaria is supportive of Macedonia's entry in NATO. "We are ready to assist in the political and practical field, where additional assistance is needed," he added.

The two ministers also discussed aspects of bilateral defence cooperation. Karakachanov said that Bulgarian experts can assist Macedonia in the preparation of a strategic defence review.

Opportunities for training of Macedonian servicepersons in Bulgarian educational establishments was also discussed, as well as logistical aspects.

During the meeting, Karakachanov said that it is important for Bulgaria to see the military-history heritage preserved and that the past and respect for the dead should unite the two countries - not divide them.

The Bulgarian Defence Minister visited the Ilinden military base and observed a demonstration of actions by the Macedonian special operations forces.