Dragan Krapović and Jaromir Zuna sign defence cooperation agreement between Montenegro and the Czech Republic

Minister of Defence of Montenegro Dragan Krapović is paying an official visit to the Czech Republic, where he met with his Czech counterpart Jaromir Zuna. The two ministers confirmed the exceptionally good relations between the two countries in the field of defence, while expressing mutual willingness to further intensify cooperation. On that occasion, the Agreement between the Government of Montenegro and the Government of the Czech Republic on cooperation in the field of defence was signed, making the visit particularly significant.

The signing of the intergovernmental agreement marks the beginning of a new phase in bilateral defence relations and establishes a legislative framework for stronger cooperation in the development and modernisation of military capacities and the enhancement of defence capabilities. This step confirms Montenegro's strategic commitment to continuously improving its national defence system and further aligning it with NATO standards.

Minister Krapović thanked the Czech Republic for its consistent support of Montenegro's European path, emphasising that continued support is especially important during the final phase of EU accession. He stressed that integration into the European family remains the country's key foreign policy priority, alongside the Government's strong commitment and responsible approach to reform processes.

Speaking about defence priorities, Krapović pointed to the continuous increase in investment in the defence sector, emphasising that Montenegro is systematically strengthening budgetary support for the defence system in line with strategic goals and allied obligations. He particularly highlighted the importance of modernising the Armed Forces of Montenegro through the implementation of current equipment and capability-building projects, as well as plans related to the further transformation and technological advancement of the armed forces. He also informed the Czech side about the engagement of members of the Armed Forces of Montenegro in international activities, missions and operations.

The meeting also discussed the stability of the Western Balkans. Minister Krapović pointed out that preserving peace and security in the region is of essential importance not only for the countries of the Western Balkans, but also for the stability of Europe as a whole. In that regard, it was reiterated that the membership of regional countries in NATO and the European Union represents a key guarantee of long-term stability and prosperity.

Czech Defence Minister Jaromír Zůna assessed the meeting and the signing of the intergovernmental agreement as highly important for improving existing and establishing new mechanisms of cooperation in the field of defence and security. He reiterated the Czech Republic's strong support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans, stating that Montenegro represents a positive example in the region regarding commitment to reforms and progress on the European path. He said that Montenegro will continue to have the Czech Republic's full support in the process of European integration and the strengthening of institutional and defence capacities.

During the visit, Minister Krapović also had the opportunity to familiarise himself with products offered by companies from the Czech defence industry. On that occasion, he stressed that Montenegro carefully considers its national needs and makes transparent decisions regarding arrangements aimed at modernization and procurement in the field of defence.