Radmila Sekerinska (Photo: Print Screen YouTube)
At the opening of the Atlantic Council of Montenegro’s Youth Summit in Budva, on April 25, NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska said that the NATO expected the region to be more "Western" than "Balkan."
Shekerinska said that the Western Balkans were of strategic importance to the Alliance, but that stability was being undermined by "nationalistic and secessionist" rhetoric that was still in use, Radio Free Europe reported.
"This region is important to us, but we expect more from it in terms of problem-solving. Problems cannot be solved by hatred and division, but through hard work and cooperation," Shekerinska said, adding that the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague, scheduled for July, would be dedicated to the Alliance's unity and ability to defend all of its members.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also addressed the Summit in a video message, stating that NATO was needed now more than ever due to growing insecurity and war in Europe. The NATO Youth Summit is being held in Montenegro for the first time and has brought together young leaders, decision-makers, and experts in security, artificial intelligence, and other fields.Shekerinska in Montenegro: NATO Expects the Region to Be More ‘Western’ than ‘Balkan'
To get full access to all content of interest see our
Subscription offer
Or
Register for free
And read up to 5 articles each month.
Already have an account? Please Log in.