Serbian Minister Joksimović: Montenegro significant regional partner of Serbia on its European path

Belgrade, Serbia (17 June 2014) -- During his visit to Serbia, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Igor Lukšić met with Serbian Minister without portfolio for European Affairs Jadranka Joksimović.

Montenegro and Serbia have developed excellent bilateral cooperation, which is being improved and strengthened continuously, the two officials highlighted.

Minister Joksimović thanked DPM Lukšić for Montenegro’s support during its negotiation process and underlined that Montenegro is a significant regional partner on the Serbian path towards the EU. She emphasised the exchange of experience and cooperation between the two negotiation structures are extremely important for  Serbia's accession process.

DPM Lukšić informed Minister Joksimović about current status of Montenegro’s negotiation process and voiced his belief the two negotiation structures will maintain regular communication. He commended the successful implementation of the activities related to the IPA funds and cooperation between the two ministries regarding the negotiation chapters 23 and 24. The collaboration coordinated by the two ministries strengthens the position of the entire region, DPM Lukšić added.

The two officials agreed the cross-border cooperation is very important, having in mind that the European Union intends to invest funds in the Western Balkans in order to make this region more compact and competitive.