Summary of SRES 399: Congratulating North Macedonia on Independence and Diplomatic Relations

Bill Overview

• Bill Number: SRES 399
• Title: A resolution congratulating the people of North Macedonia on the 34th anniversary of their independence and celebrating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between North Macedonia and the United States.
• Status: Discharged by Unanimous Consent from the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.
• Introduced: September 17, 2025
• Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SRES 399 is to formally recognize and celebrate two significant milestones for North Macedonia:
1. The 34th anniversary of its independence.
2. The 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between North Macedonia and the United States.

This resolution aims to strengthen the bond of friendship between the two nations and acknowledge their shared values and commitments.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes several important provisions, which are as follows:

1. Congratulations to North Macedonia: The Senate extends best wishes to the people of North Macedonia on their independence anniversary.

2. Recognition of Friendship: It honors the longstanding friendship between the United States and North Macedonia, emphasizing shared values of freedom, democracy, and good governance.

3. State Cooperation: The resolution recognizes the cooperation between the State of Vermont and North Macedonia, including the partnership between the Vermont National Guard and the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia.

4. Commitment to the Prespa Agreement: It appreciates North Macedonia’s ongoing commitment to the Prespa Agreement, which is crucial for regional stability.

5. NATO Membership: The resolution honors the five years of shared security and collective defense since North Macedonia became a member of NATO.

6. Role in Regional Stability: It acknowledges North Macedonia’s active role in promoting peace and stability in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans, as well as its alignment with the European Union and U.S. positions on security and foreign policy.

7. Future Cooperation: The resolution expresses hope for continued prosperity, peace, cooperation, and friendship between the two nations for decades to come.

Impact

This resolution serves to:
- Reinforce diplomatic ties between the United States and North Macedonia.
- Highlight the importance of North Macedonia's role in regional security and democratic reforms.
- Foster goodwill and collaboration in various sectors, including military and governance.

Legislative Actions

• November 4, 2025: The resolution was agreed to in the Senate without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.
• September 17, 2025: The resolution was introduced and referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

Sponsors

• Primary Sponsor: Peter Welch
• Cosponsors: Thomas Roland Tillis, Jeanne Shaheen, Pete Ricketts

This resolution reflects a commitment to international friendship and cooperation, celebrating significant milestones in the relationship between the United States and North Macedonia.