Darmanović, Stier: Montenegro and Croatia dedicated to regional cooperation and integration of Western Balkans

Zagreb, Croatia (15 March 2017) -- Minister of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro Srđan Darmanović paid today an official bilateral visit to Croatia, at the invitation of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Croatia Davor Ivo Stier. Minister Darmanović had meetings with the highest Croatian officials, as well – President of Croatia Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, Speaker of Parliament Božo Petrov and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.

The two ministers expressed their satisfaction with the content and quality of bilateral relations, which confirms the intensive political dialogue and cooperation in all fields. The pace at which the current issues in bilateral relations between Montenegro and Croatia solves was evaluated positively, and it was noted that the two countries would continue to cooperate on the basis of good-neighborliness, mutual trust and respect.

Bearing in mind that Montenegro and Croatia are dedicated to the regional cooperation and integration of the Western Balkans, both sides expressed confidence that they will further promote bilateral relations in the upcoming period by joint efforts and through new models of regional and economic links. The importance of the current continuous and open support of Croatia in the European and Euro-Atlantic integration of Montenegro was particularly stressed, both at the political level and through expert advice, transfer of knowledge and experience.

The topics of particular interest were the intensification of relations between Montenegro and Croatia in the economy, strengthening of the economic relations, increasing trade, as well as  more intensive cooperation in the field of tourism and energy. Both sides agreed that the implementation of major infrastructure projects and better traffic connection represent a common interest and development opportunity.

In talks with the highest Croatian officials, the issues of bilateral cooperation were discussed, and it was pointed to the need for stronger linkages and joint action through regional mechanisms.

Croatian officials reiterated that the support to the European integration of Montenegro will follow in the coming stages of this process. Also, it was noted that a significant potential for further cooperation represent a possible joint projects within the available EU funds and instruments of cooperation.

The officials exchanged their opinions about political, security and other conditions in the region.

During an official visit to the Republic of Croatia, Minister Darmanović visited and exhibition by painter Dimitrije Popović – Retrospective 1966-2016. The famous painter was born in Cetinje in 1951, and the aforementioned exhibition is the most comprehensive presentation of his work so far.