WASHINGTON, June 08, 2016 — Opportunities for further cooperation and emerging security challenges highlighted a meeting at the Pentagon today between Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work and Montenegrin Defense Minister Milica Pejanovic-Djurisic, Work’s spokeswoman said.
In a statement summarizing the meeting, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Courtney Hillson said Work applauded Pejanovic-Djurisic and her country for their expanded contributions to NATO missions.
Support for NATO Membership
Additionally, she said, the deputy secretary congratulated Montenegro on the recent signing of its accession protocol, which sets the stage for ratification by the 28 NATO allies, and emphasized U.S. support for Montenegro’s NATO membership.
Work also thanked the defense minister for Montenegro’s contributions in Afghanistan, reiterated the department's commitment to sustaining strong bilateral relationships, and reaffirmed U.S. commitment to its allies and partners, Hillson said.