Cyprus Foreign Minister pledges strong support for Montenegro’s EU bid, readiness to provide assistance

Podgorica, Montenegro (24 June 2011) – Cyprus is one of the strongest supporters of Montenegro’s EU accession efforts and is ready to share its experience and provide assistance, having in mind the similar size and the recent experience of accession negotiations challenges, Foreign Minister of Cyprus Markos Kyprianou told the press following the talks with his Montenegrin counterpart Milan Roćen earlier today.

“We believe that Montenegro is on the right track, we know it is doing its homework and producing results and we look forward to begin negotiations with Montenegro as soon as possible,” Minister Kyprianou remarked, expressing strong hope for the accession talks to begin even before Cyprus assumes the EU presidency on 1 July 2012.

The Foreign Minister also thanked Montenegro for its principled position and support in the efforts to solve the Cyprus problem within the UN Security Council resolution.

Montenegrin Foreign Minister Milan Roćen praised Cyprus and its successful administration, which, in his words, can serve as a positive example of how wise and reasonable politics can develop economy, mitigate problems and improve the quality of life in difficult times.

On this occasion, Minister Roćen announced the signing of a memorandum on cooperation concerning the exchange of good practices on European integration in Cyprus capital Nicosia.