The Secretary General of NATO Jens Stoltenberg is paying an official visit to BiH, and after the meeting with members of the Presidency of BiH, he praised the progress of our country in the process of joining this military organization, but also noted that much more must be done.
“I want to thank BiH on participation in missions in Afghanistan and your contribution in the fight against the global threat of terrorism. We appreciate your donated ammunition to Iraq and contribute to the fight against ISIS,” said Stoltenberg at the beginning of his address.
However, what local officials are most interested in is the position of NATO in the progress of our country for membership in the organization.
“BiH is a candidate for membership in NATO and has the necessary instruments that can allow it to progress. NATO is ready to activate the MAP, but only when military assets are registered with the reforms in the security sector,” said Stoltenberg.
He said that the document “Review of Defense” represents a step forward.
“I welcome the progress and strong commitment and I urge you to do even more. Through NATO, BiH will be even closer to the EU. We want to help BiH to implement Review of Defense, but I want to note that we support the territorial integrity and sovereignty,” said Stoltenberg.
He also commented on the security situation in the Balkans, saying that NATO does not want any escalation of the conflict in the Balkans.
He said that NATO reviewed a report about the impact of Russia in the Balkans, and especially the impact of Russia before the elections in Montenegro. He says that NATO monitors and works with partners to strengthen their intelligence capabilities including Montenegro.
Stoltenberg said that the best way to avoid outside influence is strong institutions that can withstand impact and continue the democratic process.
(Source: S. H./Klix.ba)
