Minister of Defense Pejanovic-Djurisic met with U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta

Minister of Defense Prof. Milica Pejanovic- Djurisic, PhD met in Pentagon with U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta. During the meeting Secretary Panetta emphasized that U.S. fully appreciates constructive role which Montenegro has in the region, as well as Montenegrin contribution to global fight against terrorism, especially through participation in ISAF mission in Afghanistan. This affirms our country as reliable partner which successfully conducts reforms on its way to fully-fledged membership to NATO. Pentagon's commitment to further support in the Defense Sector through continuation of joint workout, education, training and modernization of the Armed Forces of Montenegro was also emphasized.     

 Minister Pejanovic-Djurisic stressed the significance of cooperation and support in capacity development of the Ministry of Defense and the Armed Forces of Montenegro. She reiterated Montenegrin commitment to actively participate in regional initiatives, what represents the best way to realize 'Smart Defense' concept. Also, she thanked U.S. colleagues on professional assistance of expert teams while drafting, defining and harmonizing affairs and tasks of future Military-Intelligence Service with NATO standards.     

Interlocutors assessed former bilateral cooperation as very constructive and of high quality. An increasing number of common activities confirms excellent cooperation between Pentagon and Ministry of Defense of Montenegro. It was concluded that sending of an adviser of the U.S. Ministry of Defense to Montenegro will contribute to the demanding coordination of future plans.

Minister Pejanovic-Djurisic also met with the newly appointed chief of U.S. National Guard Bureau, General Frank Grass. They agreed that State Partnership Program (SPP), which Montenegro has been realizing for five years with the assistance and support of U.S. National Guard, is crucial for enhancing tasks and obligations of the Armed Forces of Montenegro. It was assessed that the cooperation with Maine National Guard is of great importance for development of overall relations in the field of defense.