President of the Republic of Serbia Tomislav Nikolic said today on the occasion of the Serbian Armed Forces (SAF) Day, 23 April, that the SAF are ready to respond to security challenges and are the guarantor of stability in the region.

"The Armed Forces are obliged to assist the population in case of danger of any kind. Our military is the most influential institution in terms of its reputation, status and respect among the citizens of Serbia", stated Nikolic at the ceremony celebrating the Armed Forces Day in Krusevac.

The President extended the message of congratulations to the members of the Serbian Armed Forces and wished them further success in their work.

"The Republic of Serbia as a UN member participates in UN and EU-led crisis management operations, which is of importance to foreign policy, security and strengthening the defence system", said Nikolic.

He added that participation of the SAF in peace support missions strengthens the reputation of the country and contributes to improving the operational capabilities of the military. In his words, improving regional military cooperation and the living standard of members of the armed forces will be sought.

Chief of Defence of the Serbian Armed Forces, General Ljubisa Diković, said today that the Serbian Armed Forces are the backbone of the country's defence system.

"Citizens trust us, the world respects our soldiers, our military today is building peace together with partners around the world and is strengthening the reputation of Serbia," said CHOD Diković.

He pointed out that the Serbian Armed Forces need modern combat systems in order to successfully respond to security challenges. "Investing in the military is an investment in the security of the citizens of Serbia," said Dikovic adding that the Serbian state leadership has a military worthy of them.

The celebration of the Serbian Armed Forces Day at the Kosovo Heroes Square in Krusevac was also attended by Serbian Prime Minister Ivica Dacic, his Deputy Aleksandar Vucic, ministers Ivan Mrkic, Zorana Mihajlovic, Goran Knezevic, Zarko Obradovic, National Assembly Speaker Nebojsa Stefanovic and representatives of the diplomatic corps and religious communities.