NATO represents pillar of defence of values of countries united around idea of freedom and democracy

During his visit to the United States on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of NATO, Minister of Foreign Affairs Srđan Darmanović took part in a ministerial forum organised by the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA).

In his address, Minister Darmanović pointed to the importance of addressing the contemporary internal and external challenges facing the Alliance, stressing that the current dynamics of relations in the international community confirms that allies face new threats to security and internal cohesion. He stressed that further strengthening of defence capacities is necessary in order to adapt to the modern security environment.

In the context of contemporary threats to the international order, he emphasised the importance of further strengthening capacities in terms of providing, in the first place, energy and cyber security. "In order to respond in a timely and comprehensive manner to security challenges, the Alliance needs to preserve the transatlantic dialogue and solidarity between the allies," Minister Darmanović said, adding that the geopolitical ambitions of certain actors point to the need for increased interest of the Alliance in Eastern and Southern Europe.

"In times of continuous change, NATO is necessary as a pillar of defence of values of countries united around the idea of freedom and democracy," the Minister noted, stressing that the Alliance, in its 70 years of existence, preserved unity and solidarity, and confirmed the commitment to peace, security and promotion of democratic values upon which the allies will continue to act in the future. Furthermore, he said that NATO is not only a military alliance but also an alliance of values, which is an indispensable mechanism in providing security in the Western Balkans.

Minister Darmanović also participated in a conference titled "NATO Engages", where US Vice President Mike Pence and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg delivered addresses.

Last night, Minister Darmanović attended the reception on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization hosted by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.