OSCE's Zannier: Montenegro's progress and reforms can set good example to entire region

Podgorica, Montenegro (12 July 2016) -- Prime Minister Milo Đukanović met with the Secretary-General of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Lamberto Zannier, who is paying an official visit to Montenegro.

Expressing satisfaction over the celebration of the 10th anniversary of institutional cooperation between Montenegro and the OSCE, Mr Zannier welcomed Montenegro's impressive progress in the field of European and Euro-Atlantic accession. Progress made and reforms implemented in Montenegro can set a good example to the entire region, said Zannier, and stressed that the OSCE will continue to cooperate with the Montenegrin institutions and provide expert support when it comes to the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for 16 October 2016.

Prime Minister Đukanović stressed that Montenegro pays special attention to cooperation with the OSCE, which significantly contributed to the democratisation of the Montenegrin society in the pre-referendum period as well. He thanked Secretary-General Zannier for technical and other assistance in strengthening institutional capacity and democratic development of Montenegro, which has significantly contributed to its progress in European and Euro-Atlantic integration. At the same time, he reiterated the Government's commitment to adopting and promoting the values the OSCE is based on.

The Prime Minister informed the OSCE Secretary-General about the reasons which led to the establishment of the Government of Electoral Trust. He also reiterated the Government's willingness to fully contribute to the implementation of the Agreement on creation of conditions for free and fair elections and the smooth functioning of the Cabinet in order to jointly create the most optimal conditions for full implementation of national legislation and international standards. He told Mr Zannier that a formal letter inviting the OSCE / ODIHR to observe the elections will be sent soon, stating that it is important that the elections are observed by as many local and foreign observers as possible. He particularly emphasised the importance of the OSCE Mission, headed by Janina Hrebickova, for the overall cooperation and current processes in Montenegro.

Both sides agreed that intensive exchange of views on further refining activities of the OSCE Mission should be continued after the elections, in line with the progress of Montenegro in achieving its strategic priorities.