Government of Montenegro statement regarding text published earlier today in daily newspaper Dan entitled “Putin declined to meet with Milo”

Podgorica, Montenegro (9 October 2013) – Montenegro and Russia cherish traditionally good relations based on mutual trust and cooperation in all areas of shared interest. This has been confirmed in a number of bilateral meetings at all levels and in statements by both countries’ officials. Therefore, the statement that the President of the Russian Federation has declined to meet the Prime Minister of Montenegro is entirely without ground. Since Prime Minister Milo Đukanović has not requested to meet Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, it is a complete falsehood, from whosever part it may come, that the request was denied.

Russia’s position on NATO is well known to all, as is Montenegro’s view on the Alliance. However, it is certain that Russia treats Montenegro with respect, as a friendly country and a respected stakeholder in the Balkans and in the international community.

This standpoint of the official Moscow was clearly reiterated during the recent visit by Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Aleksey Meshkov. The friendly and respectful relationship between Montenegro and Russia was also welcomed by the Patriarch of Moscow and all Russia Kirill I in his meeting with Prime Minister Đukanović two days ago in Podgorica.