30.06.2023.
Minister Vučević Meets US principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense
Today, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Miloš Vučević had a meeting with US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Tressa Steffen Guenov.
Minister Vučević noted that high-level visits from the USA carried out over the previous period implied the strengthening of relations of the two states, defence cooperation being traditionally well-developed domain of cooperation.
He underlined the diversity of the areas of common interest in which the cooperation is carried out, stressing the newly established area of joint participation in multinational peacekeeping operations, joint military exercises and training, and donations of the US side provided to the system of defence of Serbia. As Minister Vučević pointed out, the military economic cooperation has the potential for further development in mutual interest.
The cooperation between the Serbian Armed Forces and Ohio National Guard is comprehensive and diverse according to the minister of defence.
Furthermore, Minister Vučević stated that Serbia continues pursuing a balanced defence policy, working continuously on the enhancement and further qualitative development of defence relations with all states and international organisations, in line with long-term strategic orientation of our state to maintain its status of a militarily neutral state.
At today’s meeting, the minister of defence stressed that Serbia appreciates the US support in the negotiation process between Belgrade and Priština. He said that our side is open for the continuation of the dialogue since we endeavour to ensure a normal life of the Serbian community in Kosovo and Metohija using peaceful means.
Minister Vučević asked from the USA to use their influence with the Provisional Institutions of Self-Government in Priština, whose dangerous policy of violence annul all the achievements of previous dialogues, so that further escalation of the conflict could be prevented.
As regards the security of the citizens of Serbian nationality in Kosovo and Metohija, the minister of defence stated that Serbia perceives KFOR to be the only legitimate armed formation in Kosovo and Metohija in line with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244, adding that the safety of KFOR members is unquestionable and it represents the priority for Serbia.
He pointed out that Serbia finds it significant that the USA have recognised our state as an important partner in ensuring the stability and security in the Western Balkan region, stressing the firm orientation of Serbia to remain a promoter of dialogue and stability factor in the region.
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Guenov expressed gratitude for cordial reception, and expressed expectation that in the period to come the cooperation between Serbia and USA would be raised to a higher level in all areas of common interest.
