Announce: Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic received Admiral Gregory Johnson, commander of American naval forces in Europe

Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic today welcomed Admiral Gregory Johnson, the commander of the US naval forces in Europe, and his associates.

During a long and open conversation, they exchanged views on political and security matters in the country and the region, reform of the Army of Serbia-Montenegro, prospects of regional and bilateral cooperation and the necessity of accelerating Serbia-Montenegros integration into Euro-Atlantic security structures.

Prime Minister Djukanovic stressed that complete stabilization of the region could be reached through substantial demilitarisation of the region and professionalisation of armies, which he said was a precondition for the creation of the regional security system and quicker integration of the Western Balkans into Euro-Atlantic security structures.

Admiral Johnson congratulated Djukanovic on brave leadership in difficult times and found that the visit was extremely important for the promotion of bilateral relations and stability in the region. He expressed satisfaction with initial steps in army reform and found that the two countries are about to experience the period of intensive and constructive cooperation. He explained that Montenegros participation in the Partnership for Peace and numerous bilateral arrangements would create conditions for the development of cooperation that would produce permanent security in the region.

The meeting was attended by the US Ambassador to Belgrade William Montgomery.