Ibrahimović at A5 Meeting: Energy Security and Critical Infrastructure Protection Key to Regional Resilience

Ibrahimović emphasized that recent instability in the Middle East once again demonstrates how quickly a crisis in one part of the world can produce economic and strategic consequences in Europe and beyond, making energy a matter of national security today. He warned of the risks associated with long-term dependencies on Russian energy resources and investments, as well as challenges related to China's growing presence in strategic infrastructure, energy, and critical technologies, especially regarding ownership, financing, long-term dependencies, and access to key systems. Speaking about Montenegro, Ibrahimović stated that as the most advanced candidate for EU membership, it is exposed to malign external influences, with expectations that such activities will intensify as the country approaches EU accession and upcoming elections. He highlighted Montenegro's commitment to strengthening resilience against hybrid and cyber threats in cooperation with NATO, the EU, and close allies. He reminded that this project is part of the G2G agreement between Montenegro and the United States, while the electricity connection between Montenegro and Italy already directly links the Western Balkans to the European market, with further development strengthening the regional energy network. Concluding, Ibrahimović stressed that diversified energy sources and secure critical infrastructure are essential for the security of the Western Balkans and the Alliance's resilience, calling on A5 members to continue strengthening the region's ability to resist external pressures and contribute to a stable and resilient Western Balkans based on Euro-Atlantic values.