Filipović: SEDM initiative – a linkage to a common promotion of military cooperation between the countries of South East Europe

"In order to develop defence capabilities, it is essential that the countries of Southeast Europe make further efforts in strengthening cooperation, both in the field of security and cyber defence, as well as exchange of information, but also relevant expertise and experience," said State Secretary Slobodan Filipović, opening today the annual meeting of Deputy Chiefs of Staff of the member states of the SEDM initiative in hotel "Hilton" in Podgorica.

He pointed out that his particular satisfaction is opening of the meeting that represents a kind of forum for discussion about issues of common interest in the field of defence for the region of Southeast Europe.

"In order to ensure prosperity in the region, we have to continue with the development of good neighborly relations, especially through regional initiatives such as SEDM, which from its beginnings serves as a link for common improvement of military cooperation," said Secretary of State. He added that in this way a continuous readiness to jointly confront common challenges is being demonstrated.

Filipović expressed gratitude to the member countries of SEDM initiative for the support they have provided to Montenegro in a very demanding and intensive reforms of its security structures in the process of accession to NATO.

"I firmly believe that our membership in the Alliance represents a positive example for the region of the Western Balkans. Integration into Euro-Atlantic and European structures are of the utmost importance for stabilization and economic development of the region, "said Secretary of State.

He thanked official Ankara and H.E. Ambassador Mustafa LEVENT BİLGEN on successful chairmanship of the SEDM initiative and wished all the success to Athens in realization of the same task in the future.

Bilgen congratulated Montenegro for becoming a full-fledged NATO member, which he called "a historic milestone" for the country.

Since 1996 SEDM initiative brings together defence ministers of Southeast European countries, with the goal of intensifying understanding and political-military cooperation aimed to strengthen stability and security in Southeast Europe.

Besides Montenegro, SEDM member countries are Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Albania, Serbia, Slovenia, Turkey, Romania, Greece, Bulgaria, Italy, Ukraine, Georgia, United States, while Moldova currently has a status of an observer.