The United States has reinforced its security and maritime cooperation with Montenegro through recent high-level naval engagements and dedicated Coast Guard support. These initiatives underscore a shared commitment to regional stability and the defense of common interests in the Adriatic and Euro-Atlantic regions.
Key Takeaways
- The USS Mount Whitney conducted a port visit to Bar, Montenegro, fostering stronger bilateral ties.
- U.S. Coast Guard experts assessed and supported Montenegro’s port security infrastructure.
- Both initiatives highlight a mutual dedication to maritime security and international standards.
Naval Partnership Strengthened
The U.S. Navy’s command and control ship, USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20), recently arrived in Bar, Montenegro, for a scheduled port visit. This visit served as a significant opportunity to enhance maritime security cooperation between the two nations. Captain Colin Price, commanding officer of USS Mount Whitney, emphasized the importance of engaging with Montenegrin counterparts to share expertise and further develop their partnership in ensuring a safe and secure maritime environment in the Adriatic Sea.
During the visit, the USS Mount Whitney hosted a reception for distinguished guests, including U.S. Ambassador to Montenegro Judy Rising Reinke and Montenegrin defense leaders Brigadier General Miodrag Vuksanovic and Commander Milan Jevtovic. The ship’s crew also participated in community relations events, such as volunteering at a local animal shelter, engaging in a basketball game with locals, and hosting a concert by the U.S. Navy Band. These activities aimed to deepen the bonds between the two nations and symbolize the shared values and trust that unite the United States and Montenegro as allies committed to peace and security.
Coast Guard Enhances Port Security
In parallel, a team from the U.S. Coast Guard’s International Port Security Program visited Montenegro to assess and bolster the nation’s port security efforts. The delegation toured key ports, including Bar, Adria, and Kotor, and held productive meetings with Montenegrin maritime officials. The U.S. Coast Guard team commended Montenegro’s commitment to implementing the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, which is crucial for enhancing port security measures and ensuring compliance with international standards.
This collaboration demonstrates the U.S.’s ongoing support for Montenegro’s maritime security capabilities, contributing to a more secure and stable regional environment. The combined efforts of naval visits and specialized Coast Guard support highlight the robust and enduring partnership between the United States and Montenegro.
Sources
- USS Mount Whitney Arrives in Bar, Montenegro, Strengthening U.S.-Montenegro Partnership, navy.mil.
- Anchored in U.S.-Montenegro Partnership: USS Mount Whitney Visits Bar, U.S. Embassy in Montenegro (.gov).
- U.S. Coast Guard Supports Montenegro’s Maritime Security Efforts, U.S. Embassy in Montenegro (.gov).
