UK Minister for Europe Lidington praises Montenegro's efforts in strengtening rule of law, human rights protection

Podgorica, Montenegro (4 February 2014) -- Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Duško Marković hosted Monday David Lidington, Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

The UK Minister welcomed the activities aimed at strengthening the rule of law and judicial reform undertaken by the Government of Montenegro, and expressed satisfaction with the results achieved in all areas covered by the negotiating chapter 23.

DPM Marković thanked the UK Government for the support for Montenegro’s path towards the NATO and EU, and informed Minister Lidington about the results achieved in the area of judicial reform, preventive and repressive actions in combating corruption, as well as the activities of the Government in safeguarding and promoting human rights and freedoms.

DPM Marković placed special emphasis on the significance of achieving media freedom in Montenegro, noting that the Government strongly condemns all attacks on journalists, and that all the competent authorities are working intensively to identify and prosecute the perpetrators and those who ordered the crimes.

Minister Lidington stressed the importance of Montenegro’s efforts in the context of creating an environment in which all vulnerable groups are protected and human rights and media freedom guaranteed, which sets the platform for a favorable environment for foreign investment.

He confirmed the UK Government's willingness to support the reform process and offered expertise and technical assistance in fulfilling obligations set out in the action plans for the chapter 23 and 24.