South-Eastern Europe Brigade (SEEBRIG) - formation established by seven participating nations in order to contribute to the regional security and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area
SEEBRIG Speeches

Speech of COMSEEBRIG, BG Aristeidis ILIOPOULOS, at the Ceremony for the Activation of SEEBRIG HQ in a new location, Command Handover-Takeover and 21 Anniversary of SEEBRIG HQ, Kumanovo/Na-5, 26 August 2020

Your excellences Mr President of the Republic of North Macedonia, Mr Prime Minister, Mrs Minister of Defense, Mr Chairman of SEDM and PMSC, Mr State Secretary, Ambassadors, Generals, Distinguished Guests, Dear Participants, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, officially, SEEBRIG is making a new step. After 9 years of presence in Camp «SCHINA», Tyrnavos/Na 3, now it’s the time to continue its journey from another base, here in Camp “BORO MENKOV” Kumanovo/Na 5.

As the new Commander of SEEBRIG, I totally apprehend and embrace the privilege and the honour of such an assignment. I will dedicate myself to the fulfilment of SEEBRIG’s fundamental objectives, as well as the maintenance of a fruitful environment, characterized by multicultural harmony, solidarity, mutual respect and sincere friendship.

SEEBRIG reflects the will of its participating nations to cooperate in the most productive way, exchange views and aspects of operational thinking and planning, regarding peace support operations, which include peace-keeping, peace-making and peace-building, as well as, humanitarian assistance operations.

Since its activation, 21 years ago, SEEBRIG has been committed to contribute to regional security, stability and to foster good neighbourly relations, among its member – nations. Moreover, SEEBRIG’s participation in numerous international exercises, collective trainings with affiliated units and NATO structures, courses, conferences, official visits and meetings, led to the promotion of the organization and the boost of SEEBRIG’s visibility amongst international organizations.

In this framework, SEEBRIG has managed to maintain military capabilities in order to conduct Peace Support , Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Assistance Operations, whenever requested.

At this point, I would like to express my gratitude to the host nation for the preparation of the new facilities, the support for the smooth adaption in our new working environment and the assistance in carrying out this ceremony. Additionally, I highly appreciate all SEEBRIG nucleus staff for their efforts, professionalism and sense of duty, during the HQ’s relocation from Tyrnavos to Kumanovo. It has been a demanding and time consuming procedure that has been accomplished successfully.

Last but not least, allow me to address my predecessor:

Dear Brigadier General Tudorica PETRACHE,

I would like to express my appreciation for the outcomes of your triennial tour of duty as commander of SEEBRIG. On behalf of all SEEBRIG personnel, I am wishing you all the best, fortuity and success at your future endeavors.

And now, I prompt you to exclaim

Who are we?

(one team – one mission)

Who are we?

(SEEBRIG family)

Thank you very much for your attention!