On the second day of the meeting of North Atlantic Council at the level of Ministers of Defence, the allies confirmed that the European Union is the Alliance's main strategic partner on European and Euro-Atlantic security. They stressed that the development of coherent, complementary and interoperable defence capabilities, while avoiding unnecessary duplication, is key to achieving common goals. It was concluded that the cooperation between the two organisations is at an enviable level, and that the COVID-19 virus pandemic additionally emphasised its importance in facing current and future challenges, especially in terms of strengthening resilience, new technologies, climate change and misinformation.

It was pointed out that the processes of updating the NATO Strategic Concept and drafting the EU's Strategic Compass represent an opportunity for further intensification of consultations and cooperation, all with the aim of promoting peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area and beyond. In addition, the Allies welcomed the EU's efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities, stressing that NATO remains an indispensable framework for a strong collective defence.

Minister of Defence Olivera Injac pointed out that the complexity of modern security challenges requires coordinated and coherent efforts of NATO and the EU. Considering the current geopolitical situation, she pointed out the importance of drafting strategic documents of the two organisations, which should create a synergy between NATO and the EU in the upcoming period. She also expressed belief that the Western Balkans will be covered by these documents, especially having in mind the region's exposure to malignant influences, and the need for a coordinated approach of the two organisations, which is vital for its stability and prosperity.

On the sidelines of the meeting, Minister Injac participated in a meeting of contributing countries in the battle group in Latvia as part of NATO's enhanced forward presence in the eastern part of the Alliance, and held a series of bilateral meetings with colleagues from Germany, Norway and Slovakia.

Minister Injac met with Germany's Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer.

Minister Injac pointed out that Germany has been a loyal partner and an ally of Montenegro all these years, providing us with constant support both on our path to full membership in NATO and in the process of Montenegro's integration into the EU. She pointed out that we especially value the experience and knowledge gained in jointly implemented activities. Injac also thanked for the donations of German Ministry of Defence to the Armed Forces of Montenegro.

Referring to the overall challenges that the current pandemic has caused on a global level, Minister Injac emphasised the important role of the armed forces in terms of supporting the population.

The German Minister of Defense pointed to the fact that Montenegro has proven to be a credible and reliable partner in the international community and stressed the importance of Montenegro's constructive role in preserving stability in the Western Balkans. In addition, she pointed out that Germany will continue to strongly support Montenegro both in the field of defence and in the process of modernisation of the Armed Forces of Montenegro, as well as on its European path.

Minister Injac also met with Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Norway Odd Roger Enoxen and pointed out the importance of cooperation between the two countries. She thanked for the valuable donations aimed at strengthening the capabilities and modernisation of the defence capacities of Montenegro. The Norwegian Minister of Defence especially pointed out that the Kingdom of Norway will continue to provide support to its ally, Montenegro. He emphasised that NATO allies can only counter modern security challenges through joint efforts, and expressed the Kingdom of Norway's full readiness to continue contributing to international peace and stability.

The meeting between Minister Injac and her Slovak couterpart Jaroslav Naď was an opportunity to confirm the excellent relations in the field of defence between the two countries, both bilaterally and within the Alliance. The ministers also agreed to hold an official bilateral meeting in the coming period, at which steps for further improvement of cooperation will be discussed.