US Senator Murphy: Invitation to join NATO to be sent soon as result of implementing successful reforms

Halifax, the USA (25 November 2014) -- Montenegro was ready to receive an invitation to join the NATO at the Summit in Wales, however, the invitation will be sent soon as a result of successful implementation of the reform process, US Senator Christopher Murphy told Montenegro’s Defence Minister Milica Pejanović Đurišić in Washington, DC, on her return from the Halifax Security Forum.

Senator Murphy stated that Montenegro has made notable progress and came closer to NATO membership, adding that the membership would be significant not only for Montenegro, but also the entire region, which will enjoy his unequivocal support.

Montenegro’s Defence Minister noted that the decision made at the summit in Wales on starting intensified and focused dialogue with Montenegro testifies to the success of the reforms implemented in relevant areas, voicing hope the support will be stronger in the future.

Minister Pejanović-Đurišić also met in Washington with US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia Evelyn Farkas. The two officials exchanged information on the current course of intensive and focused dialogue and ideas on how to successfully implement the process.

The meeting also addressed the modernisation of Montenegro’s Armed Forces and further support for boosting the capacity of the Department for Military Intelligence and Security Affairs.

The Defence Minister thanked the Pentagon for its strong and continuous support, hoping the trend of cooperation is to be continued, stressing the Ministry of Defence will be focused on preparations for the upcoming bilateral consultations scheduled for the first half of 2015.