Vukelic received Allied Supreme Commander Europe

Defence Minister Branko Vukelic emphasized engagement and the role of the Croatian Armed Forces in NATO missions, particularly in ISAF, stressing the recent decision of the Croatian Parliament, by which the number of CAF soldiers in ISAF was increased from 300 to 320. The number of our instructors in the total number of our members in the ISAF was increased so that now we have a total of five OMLT and POMLT teams. Vukelic also emphasized the role of Croatia in the region which contributes to the further stabilization of the overall situation, where security was a precondition for economic progress.

Admiral Stavridis said that Croatia, its NATO accession and the recent EU membership was kind of a model which other countries in the region should strive for. The Admiral also expressed his appreciation for the commitment and contribution of the CAF in the ISAF, particularly pointing out the excellent achievements of members of the Croatian Armed Forces in training of the Afghan army and police.

Before the meeting with Minister Vukelic, Admiral Stavridis met Chief of General Staff General Josip Lucic, and the meeting was also attended by a military representative of the Republic of Croatia to NATO Major General Drago Lovric.