Political Quotes

“it is of the utmost importance that we recognize that the Balkan region is critical to U.S. interests in Europe due to the implications in the region surrounding security, counterterrorism, cyber security, and implementation of 5G. It is a strategically significant region and a primary target of Russian malign influence. Each year I have the honor of hosting a Balkan Roundtable Security Forum with leaders from the Balkans and Members of Congress. NATO's role in southeastern Europe is critical for the support of our interests in the region. Integration of the Balkans into NATO, the EU, and other partnerships with our friends in the region has long been an important goal, given the mounting threat posed by Russians continued behavior. In a time where our strategic competitors are seeking to expand their influence, it is critical that our friends in the Balkan region know that the United States is here to support them and work together to counter our common foes. It is clearly stated in the President's National Security Strategy, the National Defense Strategy, and the National Military Strategy that Europe and the Trans-Atlantic NATO Alliance are paramount to our national security, and this includes the integration of our allies on the Balkan Peninsula.…”