Rome: Montenegro can count on Italy’s support in Euro-Atlantic integration

Rome, Italy (15 April 2014) – Montenegro and its citizens can count on Government of Italy support on their Euro-Atlantic path, Italy’s Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini told Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Igor Lukšić earlier today during his working visit to Italy. The two officials signed a memorandum on cooperation in the areas of education and culture, and agreed that this document will provide a comprehensive framework for cooperation in these areas. Minister Lukšić also met with economic development minister Federica Guidi.

Minister Mogherini said that Montenegro’s NATO integration is a priority and that Italy stands by Montenegro’s side in this important endeavour. She stressed that Montenegro enjoys Italy’s undivided support when it comes to European integration and added that Italy will, during its upcoming EU presidency, promote the enlargement policy and support the European integration process and cooperation with the Western Balkans, a region where Montenegro plays an important role. In that regard, she underlined the importance of making notable results in both integration processes in the future. Ms Mogherini noted that the two countries cherish excellent bilateral relations, especially in the area of economy, and added that this cooperation may be further improved in various areas.

DPM Lukšić thanked Ms Mogherini for Italy’s continued support to Montenegro’s European and Euro-Atlantic integration. He noted that the Italian EU presidency should help accelerate the European integration process and strengthen regional cooperation mechanisms, especially in the area of economy, with the view to boosting growth and competitiveness. Mr Lukšić underlined the fact that Montenegro is very committed to meeting its Euro-Atlantic agenda and voiced his expectations from the upcoming events. He explained that he believes that, when Montenegro is ready to become member, Italy will promote active dialogue with other member-states in discussing the enlargement policy. He noted that it is only natural that the two neighbouring countries cherish good bilateral relations in the best interest of their citizens.

During his stay in Rome, DPM Lukšić met with minister for economic development Federica Guidi. The two officials concurred that Montenegro and Italy share a potential in developing a strategic partnership in the area of energy and they noted various possibilities for broadening cooperation in the area of economy.

Ms Guidi welcomed the fact that many Italian companies operate in Montenegro and voiced Italy’s support to the strategic energy projects in Montenegro which will bring about the diversification of energy production in the Balkans.

DPM Lukšić welcomed the opening of the Confindustria in Montenegro, as well as the Italian investors’ interest in various projects in Montenegro, which he noted will further strengthen the traditionally good economic relations and friendly ties between the two countries.

DPM Lukšić gave a lecture at the International Relations Institute, on the topic of Montenegro’s European and Euro-Atlantic integration and its regional role.