The Deputy Prime Minister for Security, Defense, the Fight Against Crime, and Internal Policy, Aleksa Bečić, has urged the newly appointed Chief of the General Staff of the Army of Montenegro, Brigadier General Miodrag Vuksanović, to concentrate on making the military profession more appealing to the youth.

Bečić met with Vuksanović and Defense Minister Dragan Krapović at the Government building.

According to Bečić’s office, “The meeting focused on the challenges and opportunities faced by the Montenegrin Army, addressing the human resource deficit, as well as enhancing the equipment and training of Army personnel.”

He expressed his satisfaction regarding Vuksanović’s appointment as a professional leading the Army:

“As demonstrated by the appointment of Lazar Šćepanović as the Director of the Police Administration, our commitment to certain personnel decisions is not politicized. Today is our first meeting. Our sole objective is to ensure the professionalization of the security and defense sector, founded on integrity, which is already yielding tangible results, evident in the operation of the Police Administration.”

Bečić noted that vetting is “the most crucial process for the future of Montenegrin society.”

“The restoration of our society and the long-term sustainability of Montenegro hinge on vetting, which involves purging institutions of all unauthorized influences. Those attempting to conflate vetting with revenge for fear of scrutiny are mistaken. No honorable and professional individual will be dismissed; rather, they will be fully respected and encouraged by this leadership to achieve results. However, we need to rid the system of compromised individuals who have tarnished it through alliances with crime and other unauthorized influences or unworthy conduct, as such individuals cannot represent the Montenegrin security services.”

He reiterated his request to the Chief of General Staff concerning the importance of connecting military service with younger generations:

“I encourage you to dedicate special attention to making the military profession attractive to young people, as we must highlight the numerous benefits this path offers: from the honor of serving and representing one’s country to prestigious educational opportunities and the potential for career advancement, as well as favorable working conditions and benefits,” Bečić stated.

Vuksanović expressed gratitude for the welcome and support.

“I acknowledge the challenges ahead, and while they exist, we will strive to tackle them collaboratively with you and the minister. Human resources are our top priority. Initially, I will focus on swift solutions, followed by a comprehensive approach to propose medium- and long-term measures. We will enhance the system and inspire honorable professionals to see their future within it. I fully agree that vetting and other reforms are essential,” he remarked.