Following the 7th IISG Board decision, IISG Secretariat initiated the national thematic meetings with WB Partners to complete the third annual response mapping and initiate the second needs mapping.

On 19 April 2024, the national thematic meetings were planned to take place in Montenegro. As part of the governing structure of the IISG, the Secretariat had a meeting with Montenegro’s State Secretary, Mr. Novica Obradovic, at the Ministry of Interior’s premises in Podgorica.

The meeting began with an acknowledgment of Montenegro’s crucial role in the IISG and other regional security platforms and activities. The Head of the IISG Secretariat, Mr. Agron Sojati, emphasized Montenegro’s essential position as a critical player in the Western Balkans.

Mr. Sojati highlighted the significance of IISG’s products such as: needs mapping, response mapping, and IISG database, which encourage continuous collaboration among stakeholders in the region. These products are instrumental in identifying and addressing the security challenges faced by the Western Balkans.

Mr. Sojati outlined new initiatives aimed at enhancing the IISG Database with a cybersecurity component, as a new priority identified by the EU. This proactive attitude is intended to address the growing cybersecurity challenges in the Western Balkans.

The importance of clear communication regarding the needs and responses of institutions in the Western Balkans was stressed. Such communication plays a vital role in influencing donors and the European Commission, thereby securing support for initiatives aimed at reinforcing regional security.

Mr. Obradovic reiterated Montenegro’s commitment to actively engage in all aspects of EU integration and to adhere to EU standards and regulations. He highlighted Montenegro’s resolve to meet the criteria set by the European Union.

The necessity of regional collaboration in addressing security issues, particularly terrorism and organised crime, was emphasized. Mr. Obradovic pointed out that these challenges exceed national borders and require a unified effort from all stakeholders in the region. He reaffirmed Montenegro’s readiness to fulfill all obligations outlined in the approved methodologies of the IISG.

This meeting underscores the ongoing dedication of Montenegro and the IISG partners to advancing security and stability in the Western Balkans through enhanced cooperation and strategic initiatives.

During the meeting, the IISG Secretariat was led by Mr. Agron Sojati, Head of the Secretariat, and Mr. Eros Andoni, IISG Subject Matter Expert.