17th SEEMIC Conference: Focus on Organised Crime and Regional Security

Sarajevo, 17 September 2025 – The 17th annual Conference of South East European Military Intelligence Chiefs Forum (SEEMIC) opened today in Sarajevo, organised by the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The conference, held under the theme “The Impact of Organized Crime on the Security of Southeast Europe”, brings together military intelligence chiefs, security officials, and regional partners to discuss current and emerging security threats and the way forward for strengthening cooperation in South East Europe.

Opening the event together with Zukan Helez, Minister of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, RCC Deputy Secretary General Arslan Umut Ergezer emphasised the importance of sustained regional cooperation through SEEMIC, which has now been active for 17 years, under the coordination of the RCC.

“Regional security challenges do not respect borders/boundaries. Organised crime, cyber threats, and hybrid risks can only be addressed through collective efforts. SEEMIC has proven to be a unique and trusted platform for dialogue and cooperation among military intelligence chiefs of our region. At the RCC, we are proud to coordinate this process and stand ready to provide full support as it continues to evolve,” said Ergezer.

The RCC Deputy Secretary General underlined that SEEMIC is more than a technical exchange platform, stressing its role in fostering trust and stability in a region where citizens consistently demand stronger cooperation to improve security, economic prospects, and overall well-being.

During the conference, participants will also discuss the future SEEMIC agenda and explore ways to reinforce the platform in serving regional security interests.

More info on SEEMIC