RECEPTION IN HONOR OF THE MINISTER OF DEFENSE AND THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ARMY OF SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO

Belgrade, 5 May 2004 – TRH Crown Prince Alexander II and Crown Princess Katherine hosted a formal reception for HE the Minister of Defense Mr. Prvoslav Davinic and the representatives of the Army of Serbia and Montenegro at The White Palace in Dedinje tonight.

HRH Crown Prince Alexander II welcomed with great pleasure the Chief of Staff of the Army of Serbia and Montenegro General Branko Krga and high rank officers of the Army Headquarters General Ivan Djokic, Admiral Mihaljo Zarkovic, General Milomir Miladinovic and others.

In his address the Crown Prince pointed out :

“The Army has gained that trust by bravely defending the homeland and doing all of its duties with honour. I know our army is in a very difficult financial situation, and it is sharing the destiny of its people without complaining. I know our army is facing fundamental reforms, so that it can follow the standards of the armies of the countries in the Atlantic integrations. I am going to do all I can to assist achieving that goal, and you can always rely on my help” – emphasized the Crown Prince.

The present were then addressed by HE the Minister of Defense Mr. Prvoslav Davinic, who pointed out this gathering was a continuation of the traditional cooperation between the Royal House and the Army, and said:

“I am particularly inspired by the words of His Royal Highness, and by his wish to assist the reforms of our Army, for without a solid Army, there is no solid state.”

The reception at The White Palace was also attended by the member of the Legal Council of the Crown Mr. Vladan Zivulovic.