Montenegro Dedicated to Strengthening Collective Defense and Modernizing Defense Capabilities

The Deputy Prime Minister for Security, Defense, Fight Against Crime, and Internal Policy Aleksa Bečić and Minister of Defense Dragan Krapović met today with Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), General Curtis Scaparrotti. The meeting discussed the current security situation, Montenegro's contribution to NATO's collective security, and expectations for the upcoming NATO summit scheduled for July 11. Bečić assessed that General Scaparrotti's visit, coming just a few weeks after NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg's visit to Montenegro, represents a strong confirmation of the continuous support Montenegro enjoys from its allies and its focus on stability and progress in the Western Balkans. Next year, Montenegro will host several significant events of Euro-Atlantic importance, including presiding over the important American-Adriatic Charter (A5) and hosting the NATO Chiefs of Defense Conference. Minister Krapović emphasized that the complex geopolitical situation and modern security challenges necessitate ongoing improvements to the collective defense system, highlighting the importance of the role of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe in strengthening NATO's military capabilities. He also thanked General Scaparrotti for NATO's continued commitment to the Western Balkans region, stressing that it is crucial for the region to remain in NATO and EU focus to preserve stability and prosperity across Europe. General Scaparrotti stated that NATO values Montenegro's contribution to credible deterrence and collective defense, especially through the engagement of Montenegrin Armed Forces personnel in NATO missions, operations, and activities.