BelgradecTypeface:> Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Saturday approved the reintroduction of compulsory military service, which was abolished in 2011.
As commander-in-chief of the armed forces, Vucic agreed to reimpose a 75-day period of compulsory service at a ceremony in Belgrade.
While the measure only applies to men, women can continue to serve in the armed forces on a voluntary basis. Serbia needs a strong army and must buy and produce more weapons, Vucic added. "It is not our wish to attack anyone. But it is our wish to deter all those who threaten us day after day.” He did not elaborate on the source of the threats.
Prime Minister MilosVucevic’s government still has to approve the decision, a move which is seen as a formality due to his close ties with the president. (DPA)