PM Lukšić: EU and NATO integration, economy recovery and further democratisation remain Government's priorities

Podgorica, Montenegro (13 March 2012) -- EU and NATO integration, as well as creating conditions for further economic growth, remain the Government’s top priorities, Prime Minister Igor Lukšić said at a meeting with heads of missions of EU member states and EU Delegation to Montenegro earlier today.

PM Lukšić said that, since in December the European Council made a decision on Montenegro’s EU perspective, the country has been continually fulfilling the EU agenda. “As all EU countries, Montenegro has also been hit by the financial crisis in the eurozone, but we did not neglect our EU agenda and we do our utmost in all areas to achieve measurable and concrete results”, he stressed.

He reiretated the Government’s commitment to freedom of speech, media and free journalism which is crucial for further democratisation of the country. As regards the recent attack on daily Vijesti’s journalist, PM Lukšić informed the ambassadors about the results of the investigation and apprehension of the main suspect. He expressed belief that the further proceeding will disclose the perpetrator's motive. “The Montenegrin society should be based on the institutions that are able to cope with these challenges and protect each of its members. Democratic Montenegro can not let such thing happen and leave the perpetrators unpunished”, the Prime Minister remarked.

The Prime Minister also acquainted the ambassadors with the concrete results in strengthening rule of law, and combating corruption and organised crime, in particular with a set of the anti-corruption measures and the initiated dialogue on constitutional amendments.The Government has succeeded in setting up the necessary negotiation structure, PM Lukšić added, stressing the importance of NGO sector in these efforts and public policy making.

Referring to the current economic situation, PM Lukšić informed the heads of missions about the Government's endeavours related to economy recovery, budget stability, advancement of business environment, structural reforms and attracting new investments. “Economy recovery is now on most countries’ agenda, and the recent state of emergency has showed the necessity to diversify our economy and create more space for credible partners and new investments”, he highlighted.

He also noted that Montenegro has initiated an open political and social dialogue on all relevant issues and that, through the institution of the Social Council, future decisions as to wage policy review and other measures in accordance with the IMF recommendations are to be discussed.

The ambassadors welcomed Montenegro’s efforts in meeting EU expectations, as well as the Government’s measures in the area of economy.