NATO Secretary General Rasmussen: Montenegro important partner, devoted to regional stability

Brussels, Belgium (21 March 2012) – “Montenegro is an important partner for the Alliance and an important aspirant to NATO membership. I would like to congratulate the Prime Minister for his country’s commitment to reforms. These will be vital for future membership in NATO, especially political and defence reforms,” NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said earlier today at the joint press point with Prime Minister Igor Lukšić.

Secretary General Rasmussen said “Montenegro’s reforms are ambitious and on the right path”, adding that more needs to be done, “especially in reinforcing the rule of law and fighting corruption and organised crime.”

Prime Minister Lukšić and Secretary General Rasmussen discussed, among other things, regional developments. In this context, Mr Rasmussen welcomed Montenegro’s contribution to regional security and cooperation, adding that NATO looks forward to “to continued practical cooperation with Montenegro in all areas that are important for regional security.”

Concluding his statement to the press, Mr Rasmussen noted that NATO is “grateful for Montenegro’s contribution to ISAF,” adding Afghanistan is NATO’s top operational priority.