NATO Secretary General in Podgorica: Montenegro important partner for alliance, strong aspirant for membership

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Podgorica, Montenegro (22 May 2014) -- Montenegro is an important partner for the alliance and a strong aspirant for the membership. It has shown its commitment, played a positive role in Western Balkan and contributed to global security, NATO Secretary General Andres Fogh Rasmussen told the press conference following his meeting with Montenegro’s Prime Minister Milo Đukanović.

He also welcomed Montenegro’s support for “Western policy on Ukraine in respect of international law and our common values,” as well as its contribution to peace keeping mission in Afghanistan.

NATO Secretary General said that accession to NATO is a free choice, but that it requires appreciable efforts and reforms.

“The door to NATO membership remains fully open to all European democracies who are willing and able to assume the responsibilities of the membership, and whose inclusion can contribute to common security and stability,” Secretary General Rasmussen said.

Montenegro has made notable achievements, but there are still substantial reforms to be implemented in areas relevant to the EU accession as well, Mr Rasmussen stated.

“I encourage you to continue your efforts, especially in reinforcing the rule of law, meeting NATO standards in your security sector reform and fighting corruption and organised crime, so that Montenegro continues move forward, as you want and deserve,” he highlighted.

“I look forward to see Montenegro join Euro-Atlantic family as soon as you are ready,” NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen concluded.