Stoltenberg: Provocative rhetoric in RS represents serious concern

(Patria) - Montenegro is an important ally that significantly contributes to common security within NATO, assessed the Alliance's Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a press conference in Brussels. He stated that other allies appreciate Montenegro's contribution to the Alliance's mission and its operations, and that the benefits of Montenegro's membership are visible to all member states.

“As Secretary General, I was proud when we invited Montenegro to become a NATO member. Since then, Montenegro has proven its commitment to NATO and our collective defense,” Stoltenberg said.

He stated that he sees potential for further strengthening cooperation with Montenegro, especially in the area of regional stability.

He said that the Western Balkans is very important for the entire NATO alliance and added that the Alliance is present in the region.

He emphasized that he also discussed the situation in the Western Balkans with Krivokapić.

"Allies strongly support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Therefore, provocative rhetoric in the Republic of Srpska represents a serious concern,” Stoltenberg said, and further added:

"The joint structures of Bosnia and Herzegovina are important for the stability of the state. The Armed Forces, one of the strongest multi-ethnic institutions in the country, are particularly important. NATO remains committed to strong political dialogue and practical cooperation with Bosnia and Herzegovina and continues to support the reform efforts of that country,” Stoltenberg said.

He stated that he is confident that Montenegro will remain a committed NATO ally, adding that the Alliance welcomes Montenegro's support in the Baltic region and in Kosovo.

According to him, NATO welcomes Montenegro's efforts in promoting stability in the region.

“There is a long road ahead, but we absolutely believe and fully rely on Montenegro continuing to be a member that will help us address challenges in the Western Balkans,” Stoltenberg said.

He stated that, based on surveys, support for NATO has increased in the last few months.

“That, in my opinion, demonstrates that in all NATO member states there are different opinions on many things, but that NATO continues to have support from the people and governments of the member states,” Stoltenberg said.

Responding to a journalist's question about Dodik's rhetoric in the Republic of Srpska, Prime Minister of Montenegro Zdravko Krivokapić said that Montenegro always has a practice of helping someone without harming anyone, and that this is the state's approach towards all neighbors.

"All of us, as responsible people, should try to solve problems where they occur and, most importantly, not add fuel to the fire. BiH has a clearly defined Dayton Agreement, and that is the foundation on which future relations should be built,” Krivokapić stated.