Montenegrin minority’s status in Kosovo to be defined by end of 2011

Podgorica, Montenegro (25 May 2011) -- Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Dusko Markovic met Wednesday, 24 May, with his Kosovan counterpart Hajredin Kuçi for talks on the status of the Montenegrin minority in Kosovo, cooperation on justice reform and fight against cross-border crime and the status of Kosovo’s displaced persons residing in Montenegro.

The meeting focused in particular on the status of the Montenegrin minority in Kosovo, which, as the two officials agreed, should be resolved by the end of 2011, enabling this community to become a part of Kosovo’ s institutions, especially the Parliament.

It was also noted that strengthening judicial cooperation in terms of the rule of law and fight against corruption and cross border crime is of utmost importance. In this regard, the two Justice Ministers announced the signing of several bilateral agreements on cooperation in these areas during this summer.

In addition, they addressed the issue of borders, expressing hope that it will be completed by the end of 2011. The two deputy prime ministers also discussed the construction of a joint border crossing at the Čakor mountain, which will provide smoother flow of people and goods between the two counties.

Regarding the status of displaced persons from Kosovo currently residing in Montenegro, DPM Marković underlined the necessity of admitting those persons into Kosovo’s register of citizens, which is essential for regulating their status in Montenegro.