Membership in NATO guarantees security and ensures development

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defence hosted a reception to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the seventh anniversary of Montenegro's membership in NATO. The event was hosted by Minister of Foreign Affairs Filip Ivanović and Minister of Defence Dragan Krapović, with Prime Minister Milojko Spajić addressing the guests.

The reception underscored that Montenegro's membership in NATO has made our country more secure and has contributed to the stability of our region. In his address, Prime Minister Spajić stated that Montenegro’s integration into NATO seven years ago marked the adoption and implementation of the values and principles upheld by the Alliance, signifying that Montenegro had met the prescribed standards to join the alliance of the most developed countries. Today, Montenegro continues on this developmental path and stands at the doorstep of the European Union.

Our commitment to the values upheld by the Alliance is more important than ever. Russia's aggression against our partner Ukraine is a reminder and a warning of the importance of solidarity and joint action. This support underscores our unwavering belief in a world where might does not make right, where the principles of humanity, justice, and international law prevail, stated the Prime Minister.

He reminded the audience that the symbolism of NATO membership transcends military strength; it represents a pledge to protect the shared values of freedom, democracy, and human dignity.

As we move forward, we must continue to advocate for these ideals, both within our borders and beyond, ensuring that future generations inherit a world that is just, peaceful, and prosperous.

Speaking about the comprehensiveness of NATO's policy, its values, and the obligations and responsibilities that come with membership, the Prime Minister acknowledged the diverse emotions evoked by past events among the public. He emphasised that Montenegro’s policy is to protect every citizen and to create conditions for a peaceful life for current and future generations.

The reception reinforced that NATO remains the only guarantee of security, with membership being a privilege for Montenegro, especially in times of conflict and turmoil on Europe's fringes. This is why it is crucial, now more than ever, to build resilience mechanisms against all potential security threats.

This cannot be achieved solely through strengthening defence policy, but primarily through building a better society - through education, the rule of law, and improving the standard of living for our citizens. Only when founded on true values will our society be more resilient to external influences and security threats. And NATO embodies these values.

The Prime Minister highlighted that NATO membership has significantly stimulated economic development, increased foreign investor interest, attracted investments, and consequently improved the standard of living for our citizens.

Let this anniversary be a reminder that we are stronger together. I am confident that we will mark the 10th anniversary of our membership ready to be united in Europe and even more secure within NATO. Congratulations once again to Montenegro and our allies on this anniversary and on 75 years of the NATO, concluded the Prime Minister.