08.11.2021.
Meeting between Minister Stefanović and Nate Adler
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Nebojša Stefanović, PhD talked today to Nate Adler, performing duties of the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense who is on an official visit to Serbia, about improving defence cooperation between the two countries.
Minister Stefanović assessed that the development of defence cooperation follows the upward trend in the development of overall relations between our countries, and that the upcoming bilateral defence consultations between the Republic of Serbia and the United States will ensure the harmonization of its future steps.Stefanović and Adler assessed the cooperation so far as highly developed, especially in the military to military field, which, they agreed, is confirmed by the bilateral tactical exercise "Sky Bridge 21", which was conducted by the Serbian and U.S. military paratroopers in mid-September.
Minister Stefanović said that such joint exercises and trainings are an opportunity for members of both armed forces to learn from each other and exchange knowledge and experience, which contributes to enhancing the level of operational capabilities. He also thanked the U.S. side for the donations to our defence system and expressed our country's determination to continue using mechanisms that facilitate further building of the Serbian Armed Forces’ capacities, such as the "South" base.
The Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense expressed his belief that Serbia and the United States will raise cooperation to a higher level in all areas of mutual interest in the coming period, especially in the military to military segment. He also stressed the importance of the participation of more than 300 members of the Serbian Armed Forces in UN and EU peacekeeping operations around the world. The two interlocutors also discussed potential procurement of modern military equipment and weapons for the Serbian Armed Forces, which could contribute to their further strengthening and capacity building.At the meeting, Adler also pointed out that the United States wants to improve partnerships with all Western Balkan countries, but that they consider Serbia an important factor for the stability and development of the region. He also said that the United States respects the fact that Serbia is a neutral country and agreed with Minister Stefanović that in a partnership it is necessary to talk openly, even when we do not share the same views on all issues.
Minister Stefanović noted that Serbia continues to pursue a balanced defence policy and constantly works on improving and developing defence relations with all countries and international organizations, in accordance with its long-term strategic commitment to maintaining the military neutral status. He reiterated that Serbia's main foreign policy goal is membership in the EU and integration into European security policies and structures.Although we do not share the same views on the issue of Kosovo and Metohija, both sides agree that all challenges and open issues should be resolved through dialogue, in order to achieve peace and stability in the entire region.
