US appreciates democratic progress of Montenegro

Podgorica, Montenegro (26 July 2016) – Deputy Prime Minister for Political System, Internal and Foreign Policy Duško Marković met today with the delegation of US Senate Committee of Armed Services, led by Colonel Tom Goffus. The United States of America appreciates Montenegro's independence, its democratic progress, which includes the fight against corruption, membership in NATO and the participation of the opposition into the government of electoral trust.

DPM Marković said that since restoration of independence, Montenegro made significant progress implementing comprehensive reforms, which led it to the doors of NATO and EU.

The Deputy Prime Minister pointed out that the Protocol on the Accession of Montenegro to NATO has been ratified by seven countries, and that ten more member states are expected to do so in the fall, including the US, which, as Goffus said, has already initiated procedure to end this process.

DPM Marković said that Montenegro does not only want to use the benefits of membership in NATO, but also to actively contribute to attaining global security. Goffus said that the United States recognises this attitude and expressed appreciation for the participation of Montenegrin Army in the missions in Afghanistan.

The fact that Montenegro allocates 1,6% of its GDP to defence was deemed positive. The Deputy Prime Minister said that the goal is to increase this figure to 2%, which is rated as significant investment into safety and freedom of individuals and society in general.

The two officials concluded that there must be a joint response to the growing security challenges such as the fight against terrorism, especially when it comes to the activities of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and foreign fighters. They also emphasised the importance of a strong fight against corruption and organised crime. DPM Marković said that significant results are already being accomplished in this field. Law enforcement agencies are strengthened, the independence of the judiciary is secured, and actions in fight against corruption showed that political affiliation is not stronger than the law. Goffus said that the United States noticed the democratic progress, including the fight against corruption.

DPM Marković expressed the gratitude to the American people, the Government and the President of the United States for comprehensive and continuous support to the democratic transformation of Montenegrin society and stressed that Montenegro remains committed to the successful partnership and friendship with the United States.