Minister Krapović takes part in meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels

Minister of Defence Dragan Krapović took part in a meeting of the North Atlantic Council, which took place at NATO Headquarters in Brussels. The meeting was chaired by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

The NATO defence ministers reviewed the implementation of the conclusions adopted at last year’s Hague Summit, aimed at further strengthening collective defence and transatlantic unity.

They noted a high level of commitment to implementing the Alliance’s key tasks, as demonstrated by the determination of European Allies and Canada to assume a greater share of the burden in order to further strengthen the European pillar of security.

It was emphasised that Europe is gradually taking a leading role in the conventional defence of the continent, not only through increased defence spending but also through greater investment in industrial production and continued support for Ukraine. The defence ministers also discussed ways to further strengthen deterrence and defence, with a particular focus on enhancing combat readiness.

Minister Krapović stated that the simultaneous challenges characterising the current security environment underscore the need to preserve strong unity within the Alliance and maintain full commitment to implementing NATO’s agenda. He highlighted that Montenegro has achieved significant results in implementing the decisions adopted at last year’s Summit, with particular emphasis on the strategic framework for the gradual increase in defence spending and the implementation of the Capability Targets.

He particularly pointed out the progress made in implementing the historic decision taken in The Hague, noting that Montenegro allocated more than 2% of its GDP to defence last year. He stated that the meeting of defence ministers provided an excellent opportunity to adopt documents that will create the conditions for further strengthening deterrence and defence ahead of the Ankara Summit. He also stressed that Montenegro continues to contribute to activities on the Alliance’s eastern flank, as well as to projecting stability through the active participation of the Montenegrin personnel in international missions and operations.

Minister Krapović also underscored the importance of continuing support for Ukraine, which remains crucial for the defence of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.