DPM Igor Lukšić addresses Council of Ministers of the Adriatic and Ionian Initiative in Brussels

Statement by Igor Lukšić, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of Montenegro at the Council of Ministers of the Adriatic and Ionian Initiative, Brussels, 27 May 2013

Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished colleagues,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is truly a pleasure for me to address you at the Council of Ministers of the Adriatic and Ionian Initiative on behalf of the Government of Montenegro and before I begin, I would like to express the appreciation and gratitude to our host – Minister Erjavec on warm hospitality and excellent organisation of this important event.

This occasion represents an excellent opportunity for exchange of views regarding current challenges and gives an additional impetus to the strengthening of regional cooperation and European perspectives, thus contributing to the wellbeing of our citizens.

All of us here are fully aware of the fact that a stable region consists of stable countries that give their sincere contribution to the development of mutual trust and strengthening of all forms of cooperation. I am confident that only in our joint efforts and activities we can create environment, in which we share and cherish our common values.

The reason we gathered here today is our awareness that we need to continue working on issues that will guarantee our European perspective. The best part is that we are not working hard because of Europe but because of ourselves. Each of us who made an extra step towards internal overall improvement, which equals an extra step towards the EU is a good example for others. Good and prosperous neighbor can only make a positive impact on us. That is why we need such initiatives and that is why Montenegro is strongly dedicated to work together with you.

Excellencies,

Adriatic and Ionian Initiative, through which all of us for so many years now are accelerating positive processes in our Region, continues to represents good regional framework for cooperation among our countries.

I strongly believe that in years to come there is a need for concrete, project-oriented cooperation in the areas of common interest. That is why I welcome the idea for the reform of this Initiative. It is about the process that should be followed by concrete activities, such as participating in creation and implementation of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian region. This reform is not only logic; it is also needed because it proves its success. Some of its initial constituencies are part of the EU.

I would also share with you my opinion that the very concept of a micro region especially in economic terms is good one. If community as a base of any larger society is healthy and wealthy it also guarantees that the body as a whole will be positively affected by this particular cell. Our Adriatic Ionian cell is recognised in the EU as its future part. That is why we have great chance to use our 13 years of experience along with the support of the EU to make this initiative success.

Dear colleagues,

Montenegro, as a Mediterranean and Adriatic country, strongly supports launching of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian region. Our commitment is even bigger due to the fact that this idea was officially launched during the Montenegrin AII Initiative Presidency in 2010-2011. I am confident that AII will get a great opportunity for implementation of the Strategy in 2014 during the EU Presidency of Greece and Italy. That will be an additional opportunity for the promotion of the Adriatic and Ionian Initiative in general.

We will all agree that the AII must be flexible in order to adapt to the new circumstances and new ideas on development of regional cooperation. It needs to constantly upgrade its image as a trusted and respected partner in the region. Partner that is fully engaged and committed to provide significant, project-oriented contributions to strengthen the economy, transport, maritime, tourism and social systems of its Member States.

The Brussels Declaration that we are adopting today represents the basis of a process that is to be enriched with concrete and detailed actions. We are starting as of today and count on support and productive approach of all of us here. I can assure you that Montenegro will continue to be reliable partner in our further joint activities and projects.

I would like to congratulate Slovenia on its successful Presidency, and at the same time to express our readiness for continuing to work together under the upcoming Albanian Presidency, which will, I am confident, lead us through the new challenges successfully and smoothly.

Thank you.