Before great challenges our world faces today, even the small countries like Montenegro have their share of responsibility. We are confirming this by participating at this High-Level meeting dedicated to finding ways for the stabilization of Afghanistan. Also, of course, by participating in the ISAF Mission. The success of our common endeavor is of vital importance for the future of Afghanistan. But it is also inseparable from regional and global context as well. The road leading to our ultimate goal is long and hard. What is important is that we are moving forward without a pause. The very fact that this meeting is held in Kabul, as we have agreed in London, is encouraging. I would like to thank the Government of Afghanistan and to all who have contributed to the organization of the event.

Montenegro restored its independence on a referendum in 2006. Practically immediately after we have donated light weapons and ammunition to Afghanistan. Since March this year Montenegrin infantry and medical team are stationed in northern Afghanistan in ISAF Mission, within Hungarian contingent under German command. We would like to thank the two countries as well as to our other partners on the excellent cooperation and support they provided. We are preparing intensively the second and third rotation so that it would take place timely and smoothly. We have launched an initiative together with Croatia to examine the possibility to train a joint team of instructors that would provide assistance to the Afghan security forces. This initiative is open for all other Balkan countries. In the total number of international forces engaged in Afghanistan the contribution of Montenegro is symbolic. However, it makes 2% of our armed forces, which themselves are going through a dynamic process of reforms.

We believe today's Conference will open new channels important for the ultimate successful conclusion of this endeavor. The transition of power to the Afghan leadership is a precondition for this. Reconciliation and strengthening of trust between different ethnic and political structures in Afghanistan is of crucial importance for the credibility of this process. It is also of utmost importance that all countries, big or small alike, are open to join this endeavor and provide assistance within their capacities.

Thank you.