NMacedonia becomes 30th member of NATO

North Macedonia on Friday officially became the 30th member of the NATO military alliance.

North Macedonia’s flag is set to be raised alongside those of the other 29 member countries at NATO headquarters in Brussels and two other commands simultaneously on Monday.

Given the impact of the coronavirus around the world, President Stevo Pendarovski said "we cannot rejoice and mark the event as it should (be marked)… But, this is a historic success that after three decades of independence, finally confirms Macedonian security and guarantees our future. Congratulations to all of you. We deserve it.”

The accession to the alliance marks the end of a long quest for the former Yugoslav republic.

Joining NATO and the European Union has been a priority for its leaders.