02.06.2021.
Stefanović: We guarantee freedom and independence with the strength of our armed forces
During his visit to the new Covid hospital construction site in Novi Sad, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Nebojša Stefanović, PhD, said that Serbia pursued a policy of peace and good neighbourly relations, which meant stability in our region, as President Vučić had pointed out many times.
– Without such a policy there is no money, no investment and no better life for the people. When Serbia procures weapons, it does not procure them with the aim of endangering anyone. This is a neutral country, which wants to remain neutral, and this is a country that only wants to guarantee its freedom, independence and autonomy with the strength of its armed forces - said the Minister when asked to comment on the Croatian Defence Minister’s unexpected announcement about the introduction of compulsory military service and the fact that Croatia closely monitors all Serbia’s moves when it comes to the procurement of weapons and military equipment.
He pointed out that Serbia had a strong military, and that this was the only way it could guarantee security to the citizens, but also a better life and a better economy.– It is important that our armed forces be a deterrent against anyone who even thinks of endangering our country. Today, we are the strongest military force among the former Yugoslav states, and we are ranked 61st on the overall "Global FirePower" list, because we have a good economy - Stefanović said.
According to him, thanks to the reforms implemented by President Vučić in the country, Serbia has been strengthened economically and is able to allocate money for strengthening its Armed Forces, to invest in the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment and weapons, but also to invest in people.
– We are not particularly interested in the fact that Croatia views its procurement of howitzers or helicopters through the prism of its relations with Serbia. We are here to protect our country, to guarantee our freedom and independence, and I would recommend everyone else to take care of their citizens, their country and the economy. We will continue to pursue a responsible policy as a serious state that takes care of its citizens - Stefanović underlined.
