The annual meeting of the South East European Defense Ministers (SEDM) took place today in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, bringing together senior defense officials and security experts from across the region. Hosted by Bosnia and Herzegovina, and chaired by Ambassador a.h. Eleftherios Angelopoulos, the gathering focused on addressing pressing security challenges, fostering regional cooperation, and reinforcing the shared commitment to peace and stability in South East Europe.
In his address, H.E. Ambassador Constantin-Mihail Grigorie, the Director of RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation, highlighted the Organization’s 25-year history of promoting dialogue, collaboration, and resilience in the region. The Director reaffirmed RACVIAC dedication to practical security initiatives, including arms control, counter-terrorism, cyber security, energy security, and the promotion of human rights and gender equality.
“Regional initiatives such as SEDM are not just valuable—they are indispensable,” the Director emphasized. “They help maintain stability, build trust, and prevent the escalation of conflict.”
During his speech, Ambassador Grigorie mentiond last-year 25th anniversary of SEEBRIG and recent anniversary of RACVIAC. He stressed that it was a pleasure on that ocassion to wecome in our Headquaters Brigadier General Bilibil Bitri, Commnder of SEEBRIG. „Such moments remind us not only of how far we have come, but also of the shared commitment that continues to guide our common path forward“ said Ambassador Grigorie.
Ministers and participants discussed, among others, the ongoing challenges posed by the global security environment, paying particular attention to the ramifications of Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, irregular migration, and refugee flows affecting South East Europe. The meeting highlighted the need for continuous vigilance, coordinated responses, and strengthened cooperation among Members to safeguard regional stability.
Significant milestones for 2026 were noted, including the relocation of the SEEBRIG Headquarters from Kumanovo to Istanbul, the Hand Over–Take Over of the SEEBRIG Command, and the 27th Anniversary of SEEBRIG, underscoring the ongoing commitment to defense collaboration in the region.
The meeting also recognized the vital contributions of RACVIAC, RCC, UNDP, SEESAC, and other regional partners in enhancing security through practical engagement, training programs, and high-level dialogue. Over the past 25 years, RACVIAC has organized more than 600 activities involving over 17,000 participants, serving as a key platform for fostering trust and cooperation across South East Europe.
Looking ahead, the Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation within SEDM and other regional organizations and initiatives, including RACVIAC, adapting to emerging security challenges, and ensuring that the region remains a pillar of stability in an unpredictable world.
On the margins of SEDM Ministerial meeting, RACVAC Director hold bilateral meetings with the Minister of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Minister of Defence of the Republic of Moldova and with the Italian Undersecretary of State for Defence.
