Defence Minister Radmila Shekerinska on Wednesday said that no one takes statements made by defence ministers in the region seriously anymore like that of her Bulgarian counterpart Krasimir Karakachanov, adding that this is not the way two NATO member states should communicate.

“The Macedonian language and people are a reality and no political discourse will change that. We can, however, build a better future for our people and provide more opportunities for younger generations. This is our task,” Shekerinska told reporters after the swear-in ceremony of cadets and promotion of lieutenants of the Military Academy.

She stressed commitment to sending the same message as in past several years, stressing that “the people expect us to ensure their safety, which depends on good neighborly relations.”

“Therefore, we expect Bulgaria, which was one of the first countries in the region to support our independence, as well as our NATO and EU aspirations, to continue to do so, as the only way we can progress is by supporting each other,” Defence Minister Shekerinska noted.

Regarding reports that the Pentagon is to send armored vehicles to the Balkans, she added that it shows that the U.S. has not lost its interest in Europe and is ready to invest in trans-Atlantic partnership.

“This proves the interest of the U.S and the whole North Atlantic region to invest in increased military presence, thus sending the message that the safety of each ally ensures the safety of the Alliance,” Shekerinska underlined.