Vucevic: State of affairs in army to be presented on January 30

BELGRADE - Serbian Deputy PM and Defence Minister Milos Vucevic said on Thursday an annual presentation of the state of affairs in the Serbian Armed Forces would be given on January 30, when a report will be presented to the president of Serbia by the military top brass and the Ministry of Defence.

"On that day, we will have a display of arms and equipment and, in an argumented manner, we will explain to the president of the state why we think the suspension of compulsory military service should be lifted and how long we propose the service should last," Vucevic told Pink TV.

The duration of compulsory military service is yet to be discussed, Vucevic said, adding that this was no preparation for war, but preparation to safeguard the country and have generations that know how to defend their country and their families.

"We also need to know how to act in case of natural disasters and other situations where everyone expects the army and police to be the first to come to the citizens' assistance," he said.

Speaking about potential conscientious objectors, Vucevic said his ministry had proposed doubling the duration of compulsory military service for those who wished to serve without arms.