DPM Marković meets with President of ALDE Group in Council of Europe Jordi Xucla

Podgorica, Montenegro (8 April 2016) -- Deputy Prime Minister Duško Marković met earlier today with President of the ALDE group in the Council of Europe Jordi Xucla.

DPM Marković spoke about Montenegro's progress in the European and NATO integration, and thanked the Council of Europe for the continuous contribution to achieving results in the rule of law and institution building, and particularly appreciated the assistance provided by the Venice Commission in terms of amending the Constitution. 

Mr Xucla noted that Montenegro plays an important role in the context of neighbuorly stability and security, which has been acknowledged by the Council of Europe during the post-monitoring phase. He also stated that Montenegro is an example, and its Government a regional exception, as regards the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe's approach towards current socio-political situation.

DPM Marković said that the political offer made by the ruling coalition and the government, reduces, or even eliminates unnecessary distance between the government and the democratic opposition, and encourages optimism.

"We are obliged to do such a thing due to the rule of law-related standards we have adopted, achievements in terms of efficiency and independence of the institutions, and finally - a new quality of social relations in Montenegro," said Mr Marković.

It was agreed that the prospective political agreement between the government and opposition will be the best argument which recommends Montenegro to the Council of Europe, as it is a unique approach and long-term capital that will contribute to the rule of law, economic prosperity, civil security and stabilty of the country.