Press release: Djurovic meets Katsirdakis

Published date: 13.06.2005 15:13 | Author: Naslovna strana

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Today in Podgorica, Montenegrin Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Dragan Djurovic met George Katsirdakis, Head of NATOs Defense Cooperation, Defense Policy and Planning Division. Djurovic acquainted his guest with the efforts Montenegros Interior Ministry made in combating terrorism, organized crime and promoting the general level of security in Montenegro and the region.

Deputy Prime Minister Djurovic pointed out that Montenegros strategic goal was to enter the Partnership for Peace Program and NATO as soon as possible, adding that Montenegro was fully committed to fast and unconditional fulfillment of all admission requirements. In addition, he expressed satisfaction that the Cooperation Program between NATO and the State Union had recognized the specificities and authority of the member states, providing for NATOs direct cooperation with member states. In that context, the National Defense Strategy, which is being prepared by the Government, will incorporate NATOs standards into Montenegros security system.

Deputy Prime Minister Djurovic informed Mr Katsirdais of the recently adopted Police Act and the National Security Agency Act, enabling further reform and democratization of those services, and added that a system of parliamentary control over security services would soon be established. He also presented the figures showing the progress the Montenegrin Interior Ministry made, either independently or in cooperation with police departments of neighboring countries, in curbing terrorism and organized crime. He placed particular emphasis on Montenegros commitment and support to the Proliferation Security Initiative, arguing that weapons of mass destruction might pose a global threat to peace and security.

Mr Katsirdakis staid he had developed a very positive image of the situation in Montenegro and expressed NATOs readiness to provide direct support to the country, particularly in the struggle against terrorism, promotion of border security, prevention of the proliferation of weapons and risk management. He stressed the significance of the National Defense Strategy, adding that there were many fields in which NATO and Montenegro could have good cooperation. In conclusion, the two officials agreed a strategy for future cooperation.