Rear Admiral Predrag Stipanović, Deputy Director of RACVIAC – Center for Security Cooperation, attended the South-Eastern Europe Defense Ministerial (SEDM) Deputy Chiefs of Defense (DCHODs) meeting held in Istanbul, Türkiye on June 26, 2024. The event, organized by the Republic of Türkiye and the SEDM Secretariat, besides the DCHODs, gathered representatives from regional organizations to promote military collaboration and enhance stability in Southeast Europe.
Rear Admiral Stipnaović expressed gratitude towards the host nation and the SEDM Secretariat for their outstanding organization of the significant event. He emphasized RACVIAC’s dedication to fostering dialogue and cooperation on security matters in the region, particularly regarding Euro-Atlantic integration.
“In collaboration with our valued partners, RACVIAC will organize 25 activities this year, aligning with the priorities of our members,” stated Rear Admiral Stipnaović. “These activities are dedicated to enhancing our curricula, especially those focused on facilitating the Euro-Atlantic integration process in the region.”
He reaffirmed RACVIAC’s commitment to its mission, focusing on key priority areas such as Arms Control Regimes, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation, Countering Terrorism and Organized Crime, Energy Security, Crisis and Disaster Management, Border Security and Management, and more.
The SEDM meeting marked the first DCHODs meeting since Bucharest assumed the Chairmanship from Sofia in July 2023. The participants acknowledged the progress made under Bucharest’s leadership and appreciated the updates on SEDM-CC/PMSC activities since the last DCHODs meeting in Rome in June 2023. They also highlighted the importance of decisions taken during the SEDM Defense Ministers meeting in Ankara in November 2023.
A significant milestone was noted with the Republic of Moldova’s first participation as a fully-fledged member, bringing valuable experience to SEDM. The attendees also expressed anticipation for Sarajevo’s forthcoming membership in the MPFSEE Agreement, enhancing the SEEBRIG’s capabilities.
Rear Admiral Stipnaović acknowledged the joint commitment of SEDM and RACVIAC to regional peace and stability. He stressed the importance of coordinated efforts to achieve shared objectives for the security and stability of Southeast Europe and beyond.
“We remain unwavering in our mission, committed to continuing and enhancing our work for the benefit of our members and regional states, in cooperation with regional and international organizations,” said Rear Admiral Stipnaović.
The meeting concluded with expressions of appreciation for the successful preparation and conduct of the annual SEDM DCHODs meeting and gratitude towards the Turkish General Staff, led by General İrfan Özsert, for their gracious hosting.
The next DCHODs meeting will be hosted by Sofia, as per the agreed meetings calendar.
