"We expect objective valorization of Macedonia's achievements at the coming Summit in Riga and a strong political message concerning the fulfillment of our aspirations - membership of NATO by 2008," Macedonian Foreign Minister Ilinka Mitreva stressed at today's meeting with NATO Secretary-General Political and Security Affairs Deputy Assistant Robert Simons.

Minister Mitreva underscored the strong commitment of the Macedonian Government to continuous and consistent implementation of the overall reforms, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

"We share the same goals and I may say that you've made true progress, not only in defense, but also in all the other segments of society," Mr. Simons said.

According to him, Macedonia is approaching the Alliance at a fast rate.