USEUCOM visit to Montenegro strengthens cooperation, initiatives to enhance security in the Balkans

The visit aimed to solidify support to Montenegro, a reliable NATO Ally and an important partner in maintaining stability in the Balkans.



By courtesy story U.S. Embassy Podgorica Nov 15, 2024
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The Chief of the General Staff of the Army of Montenegro Brigadier General Zoran Lazarević met with U.S. European Command’s Deputy Director for partnering and security cooperation U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Chris McKinney on Oct. 30, 2024, in Podgorica, Montenegro.

During the visit, Lazarević and McKinney discussed strengthening military cooperation between Montenegro and the U.S. with a special emphasis on regional stability, joint military exercises, training and operational interoperability.

Lazarević expressed his gratitude for the support that USEUCOM provides to Montenegro’s armed forces, emphasizing the importance of the strategic partnership between Montenegro and the U.S. in maintaining security and stability in the region. He also praised continued joint efforts in the areas of training and military-to-military exchanges that enhance military capacity in both the U.S. and Montenegro armed forces.

McKinney confirmed the commitment of the U.S. to continue supporting Montenegro in the field of defense and security, emphasizing Montenegro as a reliable NATO Ally and an important partner in maintaining stability in the Balkans.  

McKinney also spoke with Chief of Staff of the General Staff Colonel Mitar Klikovac, who led the delegation of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Montenegro in which the capacities of the Armed Forces of Montenegro and future plans for its development were presented. During the meeting leaders discussed steps in improving the nations’ joint operational capabilities and readiness in support of NATO deterrence and defense requirements.

McKinney also visited the Montenegrin Navy Headquarters in Bar for a demonstration of improvements to the headquarters’ Maritime Domain Awareness and capabilities of four fast patrol boats recently donated by the U.S.

McKinney concluded his visit by meeting with the Soldiers of the 1st Infantry Battalion in Danilovgrad to commend the recent NATO Combat Readiness Evaluation of Montenegro’s 2nd Light Infantry Company at Saber Junction 24 and discuss future capability development of the Land Forces. 

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