Vershbow of NATO: Montenegro makes impressive progress, continues reform process

Podgorica, Montenegro (19 July 2012) – During his talks with Prime Minister Igor Lukšić in Podgorica earlier today, NATO Deputy Secretary General Alexander Vershbow welcomed the impressive progress Montenegro made towards European and Euro-Atlantic integration, stressing that the complementarity of these processes contributes to the overall development and prosperity of the country. He also called for the continuation of the reform processes and of the collaboration with the Alliance.

Prime Minister Igor Lukšić remarked that the NATO senior official’s visit is another confirmation and a clear signal that the region is important to the Alliance. It is also, he addeed, a recognition of the hard work and the results that Montenegro and its neighbouring countries have achieved.

“We stay on the path of reforms and progress. This has been a good year for Montenegro in terms of integration. When the country is moving forward in that direction, it has a positive impact on the establishment of international standards, but on the strenghtening of economy as well, “he said.

The two officials agreed that Montenegro and NATO need to continue mutual cooperation and support, thus making a contribution to Montenegro's efforts to join the organisation.

The meeting once again emphasised the significance of the contribution the Montenegrin soldiers have been making in building global peace and democracy.