Economic revival, European, Euro-Atlantic integration Government top priorities, PM Lukšić tells ambassadors to NATO

Podgorica, Montenegro (10 February 2012) – Prime Minister Igor Lukšić met with Ambassadors of Hungary, Romania, Belgium, Portugal and Albania to NATO, earlier today, and he discussed with them Montenegro’s future plans for NATO and EU integration and the country’s economic and social policy.

The ambassadors praised Montenegro’s reform efforts and announced positive signals at the forthcoming NATO summit. “In line with the results Montenegro has achieved, the forthcoming NATO summit in Chicago will send a clear open door policy message for NATO accession”, the Ambassadors concluded.

PM Lukšić highlighted the importance of the member states’ support to Montenegro’s efforts. He also underlined the importance of Montenegro’s progress in EU integration and reminded of the activities the country has undertaken. They also discussed the economic crisis and the challenges Montenegro faces and PM Lukšić noted the importance of implementing economic measures and reforms that would ensure the long-term economic and social stability.

“I would like to point out that the opening of accession talks with the EU will also have a positive effect on Montenegro’s Euro-Atlantic integration process. Montenegro has met European Commission’s requirements and expects readily the opening of negotiations with the EU. We are concentrated on the activities that will make Montenegrin institutions and society more mature and increase the living standard of its citizens”, PM Lukšić remarked.

He reiterated the Government’s commitment to meeting NATO membership criteria.

“Special attention will be paid to political and economic as well as military, defence and security issues. Our priority in the second MAP cycle is further strengthening of public support for NATO membership”, the Prime Minister stressed.

NATO member states’ Ambassadors voiced their full support to Montenegro’s integration efforts and reforms, which according to them mark the country’s clear commitment to EU and NATO accession. They remarked it is necessary to work hard to raise public awareness of the importance of joining the NATO and benefits of the membership.