US State Secretary Clinton congratulates PM Đukanović on appointment, welcomes Montenegro’s regional, international involvement

Podgorica, Montenegro (20 December 2012) – United States Secretary of State Ms Hillary Clinton congratulated Mr Milo Đukanović on his appointment as Prime Minister of Montenegro and welcomed the renewal of ties established during Mr Đukanović’s previous service in Government.

In the letter Ms Clinton sent to Mr Đukanović she noted that “the United States considers Montenegro a friend and a partner and supports its Euro-Atlantic integration aspirations.” She also emphasised “the valuable contributions Montenegro has made to ISAF and its commitment to remain until the mission in Afghanistan is completed.”

State Secretary Clinton commended Montenegro’s regional role in stressing that “Montenegro’s ethnic harmony is an example for the entire region,” adding that the US recognises “the important role Montenegro plays in ensuring stability and promoting reconciliation in the Western Balkans.”

She pledged US support for Montenegro policies in promising that “the United States will continue to stand with the government and people of Montenegro in their effort to implement the reforms, particularly in the rule of law, which are needed to guarantee Montenegro’s long-term prosperity.”