Drones represent a major step in modernizing the Armed Forces of Montenegro

Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić, Minister of Defence Dragan Krapović, and Minister of the Interior Danilo Šaranović welcomed Minister of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia Marjan Šarec at the "Knjaz Danilo" Military Airport today. The occasion featured the handover and demonstration of "Belin V" drones.

The ceremony was also attended by Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to Montenegro Bernarda Gradišnik, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Montenegro Zoran Lazarević, Director of the National Security Agency Boris Milić, and members of the Ministry of Defence, the Armed Forces of Montenegro, and the security sector.

Deputy Prime Minister Bečić expressed his satisfaction with the visit of Mr. Šarec and his team, highlighting the excellent relations between Montenegro and Slovenia. Bečić stated, "Mr. Šarec has been a true friend and sincere supporter of Montenegro's European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations for many years. The relationship between Montenegro and Slovenia is exemplary. Montenegro opened its first diplomatic mission after regaining independence in Ljubljana in 2006, and Slovenia was the first country to establish a diplomatic mission in Montenegro after regaining our independence. Slovenia was also our contact country until we achieved full NATO membership. We are grateful to the Government of Slovenia for its assistance in establishing the Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre in Podgorica."

Reflecting on the recent achievement of receiving IBAR, Bečić noted, "Receiving IBAR was a turning point. We moved from a period of stagnation and blockade to one of offensive action, unblocking and accelerating processes, and energizing European integration. I believe that by the end of the year, we will close a significant number of negotiation chapters, making the European dream a reality. If we continue at this pace, I believe we can achieve our goal of becoming the 28th member of the European Union by 2028. This achievement brings joy not only to Montenegro and its citizens but also to our friends, especially Slovenia, which strongly and sincerely supports Montenegro's European path."

Bečić emphasised that Montenegro has allocated 2% of its GDP to defence, with 30% dedicated to modernization. He added, "We are grateful for your donation of equipment and for your partnership in acquiring the drones. This is a significant step in the modernization of the Armed Forces of Montenegro. Drones are an essential platform in modern defence systems, border control, traffic monitoring, maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, investigations, and emergency situations. Today, all members of the security sector in Montenegro are celebrating because these drones will be a powerful tool as we continue to pursue common goals and values."